1997 Ford Explorer charging system.

[allelectric50]

I have a 97 Ford explorer. It is only charging at 12.41 volts. With the batt voltage is 11.65 volts. And doesn't change the voltage draw with the lights ON or OFF. And thats a new one on me. It almost doesn't start.
Battery is a Brand New "interstate Megatron". Alternator is a year old and tested good at Knects. Which I cannot believe when the voltmeter shows only 12.41 volts.
Please help!

 

[BrooklynBay]

Welcome to this forum! Have the alternator tested in another place. It can't be good if there is such a low charge.

 

[budwich]

check your connections along the "route" especially at the starter relay where I think everything comes together. IF the "reference" voltage for the alternator is low (due to poor connectivity) then its charge cycle will be lowered.

 

[tripplec]

Looks like the alternator is shot. Test the voltage (+ve) at the altenators output with -ve lead at -ve of the battery and the alternator case. They should read the same voltage if the ground it good. If you are still able to start your truck with that battery I doubt it is shot. you could charge it with an external charger (does it take and hold the charge?) Fully charged battery should end up at 13VDC. (2.2VDC/cell X 6=13.2VDC)

All alternators output at least 14VDC especially when cold. If you have another vehicle you could drop the battery in for a test but looks like the alternator is done. But messure the output at the alternator. Voltage at battery and alternator with the engine off should be the same (unless a fuseable like is blown).