electrical and engine problems

[LS431o28]

Just curious if anyone has seen this problem? about 3 months ago my gas guage started acting up and then the engine started surging at idle and the lights surge at idle as well. now my battery warning light is on and the battery gauge shows around 10 or 11. Ive checked the battery with everything on when the engine is running and the battery itself shows 12 - 13 volts. so im not sure what i should tackle first. the alternator and hope its the voltage regulator or the computer or the ignition coil. the other thing is the chiltons says to check the instrument cluster voltage regulator yet it doesnt say where it is located or how to test it. well if anyone has had these problems or some of them could you please let me know what you did to remedy it.


Thanks

 

[Lemondrop]

I dont think they have a regualr voltage regulator . If I rememebr there is a little chip looking thing on the rear of the cluster . I dunno how to check it myself . Id double check you grounds on the chassis before you get crazy with anything . I can't remember 100% but I think the regulator ONLY operates the Fuel level sensor . Check you grounds and check the output of your alternator . It should be above 13 volts when running , best would be 14 volts . You might even replace the negative ground cable to you battery / chassis .

 

[mrboyle]

From the description it sounds like your alternator is on its last leg. Low voltage will cause all the symptoms you described. You might look into getting a new or rebuilt alternator and having your battery checked.

 

[LS431o28]

Ive checked the voltage on the battery with engine running and the AC and lights and radio all on and the voltage stays at about 13 volts so its throwing me why the voltage to the gauge is worng. im gonna check the alternator tommorow once i figure out how to do it.