When I put the key into the run position, the volt gauge needle is between 8 and 13. However, when running, it is in the normal just above 13 volts. My problem is, the car is somewhat hard to start. The car takes about 5 (sometimes a couple more) seconds for it to finally fire. After it's running it's fine, and volts stay above 13. But as soon as I shut it off and try to refire, same thing all over again. It's a new battery, and no idea on the age of the alternator. I wouldn't think it's an alternator problem though. What gives? Defective battery?

 

Hard to start how? Does it have trouble turning over, or does it have trouble catching?

 

Sounds like it has trouble catching. Does the normal sounds of an engine trying to start, but it just takes 5-8 seconds.

 

if its cranking fine it wont be a battery/power issue.

Sounds like you have a fuel delivery or spark issue.

 

eh, Im kinda disagreeing with you there. Because it acts low on power when starting. It's not the normal pace of everything trying to get it to start. Everything is a bit slow, but it does catch eventually. I should have clarified that. But why it would be low on voltage when not running is my concern.

 

Don't rely on the volt gauge. Get a multimeter. With the engine running, test the voltage at the battery. Then, shut the car off and test the voltage of the battery . Disconnect the negative terminal, and take the voltage again. If the voltage is consistently low with the car off, hook the battery up to a charger and attempt to charge it. If it won't charge, disconnected from the car and connected to a battery charger, i'd say it's time for a new battery.

 

Voltage will always be higher when running.Usually in the 13-14v range while running and 11.5-12.5 when not running.Like stated above, dont trust the stock gauge. use a multimeter to determine the exact voltage.If you find the voltage does drop off sharply with the battery disconnected it is hooped.

 

I see. Thank you for the information.
I tested with another new fully charged battery and the same thing occurs. So it must not be electrical. I was wrong. (Go figure! )

edit: everything seems fine now. Starts right up in a split second. The car sat for a long time, maybe it's got some kinks to work out of.

 

Could have just been some surface rust on the contacts inside the starter or something.