You have a problem in the regulator. (or field wire is grounded somewhere) Check which alt you have (some have external regulators) If internal, and field is not grounded, then alt has to come out (defective)
When a regulator is overcharging, it is always due to the fact that the alternator field is grounded. In normal use, the regulator grounds the field intermittently to keep the battery charged but cuts off, before voltage goes too high. The battery actually serves as a secondary regulator, but cannot prevent overcharging. The diagrams I have on your electrical system show leads from the alternator going to the ecu and injectors (God only knows why). If any of those wires were grounded, I'm sure performance would have suffered and likely a wire would have melted already. Chrysler has used a regulator that is integral with the ecu from time to time.
If you have that system it is possible that the ecu is triggering the field wire and not shutting it down.
If you have a GM alternator, it is entirely possible that the alternator is internally grounded...When they test them, they usually check for max output (full field) which will overlook the problem. I have seen too many new units that are not built properly, therefore, I don't ever dismiss the possibility that it will not function correctly (quality control is abysmal) I believe that a new part is good, only when it is in the vehicle and is working.
Again...grounding the field is the "switch" that turns the al;ternator on and off...wether internally or externally this is where your problem is.(wiring, regulator or computer) Good luck!
×
436 views
Usually answered in minutes!
We installed a NEW altenator, and had the old one tested, both were good. Thanks, we'll keep looking.
×