Outer Limits 4x4 Board

The regulator on my alternater has packed it in an is putting out over 16v on and off. What effect will this have on my battery cause its gonna take 2 weeks to get a new alternater.

Not sure what you mean by “on and off”.

But a runaway alternator usually goes up over 18 volts and stays there.

If your alternator voltage is going all over the place then you may just have a lose connection.

Anyway, as long as you have a flooded wet cell battery, that’s one that has filler caps, and your alternator voltage does not go over 16v, you can drive for short periods of time, say 15 to 20 minutes, and not harm the battery, but check the electrolyte regularly and top up as needed.

Drive any longer and you risk cooking the battery and if your battery is a sealed one, keep your driving down around 5 minutes.

Also, try not to use your lights because while the battery will tolerate going to 18v for short periods, your light globes may not.

None of your electronics in the vehicle should be effected as long as the voltage does not go over 18v.

Hope this helps.

By on and off i meant that it jumps up high for short periods of time, 1-2 minutes max then it drops down to 13-14volts again.
Sometimes its for shorter stints like a few seconds but more regular. Thanks for the info drivesafe.

Don’t forget to let us know what the problem is once you sort it out.

Pretty sure the regulator is on its way out or got a bad connection. Just bought a new alternator from states. Remanufactured 165amp for $240 including postage. Could get a 90amp for bout $120 but figured may as well spend that bit extra seeing as they are around the $300 mark in aus.