On the 1st gen Xplorer is the charging gauge live or dummy?

My gauge has started riding high for the last few days.(just past norma"L"/)

The voltmeter? Well, it seems to be useful but only in a range that goes from about 12 volts to about 16 volts. Maybe less. Mine reacts a lot to minor voltage changes so I've learned to ignore it mostly.

On the other hand, when the gauge was jumping erratically from high to low all the time a couple years ago it was a good initial sign that my regulator was going.

If you're worried about it go get a small digital voltmeter and hook it up so you can see what the voltage is.

Its real. Just no numbers :rolleyes: I hate "normal-not normal" gauges. What ever happened to numbers?

TSTONE, do you noted another electric problems, like burned fuses or bulbs?. If so, maybe the gauge is right and you have an overcharging situation there.
Have check the charging system lately? It's a good habit do that every six months or so.

Sounds like the voltage regualtor to me.

Good luck,
Elevatorguy

If you have a multimeter, check the voltage at the battery while the truck is running at idle. If not, have someplace like AutoZone check it out. The volt gauges aren't very accurate at all!! But if there has been a change from the normal reading, you may want to look into it.

Robb

What is the max acceptable idle voltage?

If you're reading it off the battery at idle, the voltmeter should read anywhere between 12.8 - 14 V, depending on the battery charge, condition, and temperature. With the engine off, the reading should be about 12.6V or so.

That is true of most autos, but not Explorers. Explorer alternators are rated at 14.5 volts. A good range for that rating would be about 14.2-14.8. Anything less or more than than is (no load) an indication of a problem.

Robb