Jumpin' Volt Gauge

[shauste]

I have a 91 Eddie Bauer with 128K miles. My problem is a jumping volt gauge. The needle jumps back and forth intermittently. I have replaced both the positive and negative battery cables and terminals with no results. I thought for sure this would fix the problem. My battery is strong and the alternator is charging. Once the needle settles down, it reads normal. Any clues?

 

[Howard]

That sounds very like a bad connection inside the diode pack of the alternator. (sorts itself out when warmed up) Does the needle jump with just the ignition turned on (not started). Just for a test you could try pulling the fuse for the alternator #M14 (Light green 30 amp). If there is no diference then something like a relay is probably arcing and rapidly switching which you should be able to hear if you pop the hood and listen near the fuse box. All the best.

 

[aldive]

Take out a real voltmeter and see if its due to the POS Ford "meter" or if you have a real proble,.

Good luck.....

 

[shauste]

Howard/Al,

Thanks for the replies. I will check out both of your suggestions and get back with you with what I discover. Thanks

Shauste