Losing Power
Losing Power
When ever i turn my lights on i watch my power go down and when i turn my heater on it goes down even more?? but when i turn everything off it goes back up to normal...any suggestions or known causes for this???
Junior Member
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 48
Likes: 1
From: Kansas
Car: 90 Trans Am
Engine: 5.0 TPI- slightly modified...
Transmission: Modified 700-R4
Axle/Gears: 10 bolt 3.23 eaton posi moser shaft
Re: Losing Power
Sounds like one of a few problems.
Problem 1: The alternator is weak and is not puting out the correct amperage. Your local parts store can test this.
Problem 2: The battery is bad, not holding a charge and resulting in voltage drop when you use high power accessories.
Problem 3: The battery cables are corroded (could be inside the jacket where it cannot be seen), resulting in high resistance which causes voltage drop.
Problem 1: The alternator is weak and is not puting out the correct amperage. Your local parts store can test this.
Problem 2: The battery is bad, not holding a charge and resulting in voltage drop when you use high power accessories.
Problem 3: The battery cables are corroded (could be inside the jacket where it cannot be seen), resulting in high resistance which causes voltage drop.
Junior Member
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 48
Likes: 1
From: Kansas
Car: 90 Trans Am
Engine: 5.0 TPI- slightly modified...
Transmission: Modified 700-R4
Axle/Gears: 10 bolt 3.23 eaton posi moser shaft
Re: Losing Power
Test the wires for resistance, but be sure that you disconnect one side first, or you will get a false reading.
Re: Losing Power
How far down does the voltage drop? Are you going by the factory gauge or are you using a digital voltmeter? To an extent it's normal for the voltage to drop a bit.
Re: Losing Power
Try monitoring the voltage with a DVOM, and see if the gauge is actually reading correct. Also I'd have the alternator tested a couple more times before assuming it's ok. A lot of parts stores don't know how to run their equipment. If you've got a local shop that does starter and alternator rebuilds, they'll probably be a little more proficient at testing the components.
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Aug 24, 2015 10:11 PM









