Hi all. I just got a new free battery from Sears,
but the failure cost me an event... The guy
said my alternator was only putting out 13.4, not
13.8. Is this within range, or does it indicate a
failing alternator?
thanks,
Joe

 

I'm not an expert but I would think that if it is still maintaining the juice even when the lights and stereo are on, then it should be sufficient.

 

13.2+ with all the acc on is good. More than 15.7 will kill your battery too.

 

I had 3 alternators replaced, finally got a dry cell battery best move ever, cost about $280 with the custom bracket?

 

Im having my alternator replaced next week...how does the dry-cell battery help?

 

yes whats the deal with a dry cell battery?

 

The charging voltage will depend on the temperature; I believe the volts are lower, with higher ambient. The numbers I remember are 2.26 and 2.36V/cell @ 25 deg C (13.56 -14.16V).
I wouldn't be sure of the accuracy of the voltmeter reading either. It would also depend on where the voltage is being monitored and the drops related to accessories between the source and load.