Electrical Question

[green_rt10]

Hey, all! I just replaced my toasted headlight switch and connector (parts used: Duralast SW189 and 583). While driving today, I noticed that the voltage gauge would travel down to about the middle mark when the car was idling and the lights were on (it went sliiiighly higher with the lights turned off).

Curious if this might be related to the work I just did (total shade tree mechanic here), or is it more likely an alternator issue cropping up. I'm noticing just a tad bit of serpentine belt squeak when I move away from idle in first. The battery was replaced last year, and it hasn't ever died. But, the car lives in a storage unit, so no tender, alas.

 

[daveg]

Put a Volt meter on Battery or other 12 volt source to determine what the voltage is with car running. Then turn on headlight and take another reading.

 

[green_rt10]

Hey daveg,

Thanks for weighing in, and sorry about the delay! Busy few days. Just started the car up, and the reading was an identical 14.50, with the lights both on and off. So, I thiiiink that's good news?