Alternator Gauge Fluctuates Wildly on Cold Mornings

[helpme]

It settles down after about a minute of running. I can see the headlights flickering during this time. Its OK for the rest of the day. Cold, around here, is in the 30 degree range. Is this a regulator or brush problem. I must mention that this is an Oreilly's alternator that was purchased about 2 years ago. Didn't really notice the problem when it was installed. Thanks.

 

[rusty ol ranger]

It settles down after about a minute of running. I can see the headlights flickering during this time. Its OK for the rest of the day. Cold, around here, is in the 30 degree range. Is this a regulator or brush problem. I must mention that this is an Oreilly's alternator that was purchased about 2 years ago. Didn't really notice the problem when it was installed. Thanks.

Have them test it. Sounds more like the internal regulator isnt liking the cold temps.

 

[sgtsandman]

I agree it sounds like the regulator is having issues.

 

[RonD]

+1 ^^^^

You/they can't test for that, exchange it if its still under partial warranty

Also check/clean starter relay(solenoid) cables on the Positive battery terminal post
This relay will have two larger posts, one will have a cable from battery positive, there will be 2 to 3 other wires on this post, one is from the alternators B+ terminal, it, they all, need to be clean and corrosion free
That post is the Main 12volt power distribution for the whole vehicle, just FYI

Its more likely to be internal alternator issue but cleaning connections is FREE, lol