Will not stay charged

1999 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN
200,000 MILES • AUTOMATIC
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ATHOMPSON
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  • 6 POSTS
I changed alternator three times, replaced battery, tensioner, and belt. Drive for a little while until battery ran down. Please help!
Feb 26, 2019 at 12:26 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
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You need to test the voltage at the battery to see if the alternator is working.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-alternator

Roy
Apr 19, 2021 at 10:46 AM
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ATHOMPSON
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Yes alternator is working.
Apr 19, 2021 at 10:46 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
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Okay, what is the voltage at the battery with the engine is running?

Roy
Apr 19, 2021 at 10:46 AM
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ATHOMPSON
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Battery light indicate in middle when it's crank first as you driving battery meter goes down.
Apr 19, 2021 at 10:46 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
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Got it.

Again, what is the voltage at the battery with the engine running?

Roy
Apr 19, 2021 at 10:46 AM
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ATHOMPSON
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14 volts.
Apr 19, 2021 at 10:46 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
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Okay, that is the correct voltage.

You say that the voltage drops while it is running?

What kind or brand alternators are you using?

Roy
Apr 19, 2021 at 10:46 AM
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ATHOMPSON
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It begins to drop after five to ten minutes while driving, not sure what kind nor brand. However, I can find out.
Apr 19, 2021 at 10:46 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
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Please do. It sounds like the alternator.

Roy
Apr 19, 2021 at 10:46 AM
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ATHOMPSON
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Okay, but I have replaced it twice and the alternator I have now was tested at the place of purchase.
Apr 19, 2021 at 10:46 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
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Okay, then you need to check the connectors on the alternator to be sure they are clean and tight. There may be corrosion in the connectors.

Roy
Apr 19, 2021 at 10:46 AM