when i start my car it seems to charge right at 14 volts but when I run it for a while and things warm up it will drop as low as 10 according to my battery gauge. does this sound like an alternator or possibly just the belt? I know the belt probably isn't an exact fit as the smog pump was removed by the PO and there's not and idler or anything to hold its place. Also if someone could explain how to test the charging system I would appreciate it. I'm a definite noob when it comes to electrical stuff.

 

 

If you drive to your local autzone they will do a charging system check for you at no cost.

You alternator might be on it's way out. I have seen them charge fine when cold, and not charge at all when they get hot. Usually and internal short in the stator from my understanding. When you gauge shows the voltage to be low, check it at the alternator with a DVOM, at the post w/ the larger red wire. You might just have a weak cable going from the alternator to the battery. I generally step that wire up in size anyway when you start adding electronics it's not sufficient.