Alternator off/on

[jrohrbaugh]

My voltage instrument is going on and off. I have checked the connections at both the alternator and on the back of the instrument. All seem tight and in good order.
This started as we were motoring along during our last trip. I had a zero reading then normal, then zero.
Any ideas where else I can check?

Jamie
S/V Soixante
hull 444

[jonnjones]

Your alternator may be going bad.

[leigh weiss]

MY guess is that it is a bad connection in the wiring harness behind the instruments.
If the meter reads zero then it can't be the alternator as the battery voltage would keep the meter reading about 12 volts.
You can check the battery voltage on the electrical panel below to confirm the function of the alternator.
Look for about 13.8-14 volts when charging the batteries.
The ground connections around the instruments at the helm should also be removed cleaned and reassembled..
I have found wires look good at first glance but when I take them apart and clean the oxides off things work better.
Does your other instruments also go "on" and "off" or is this limited to the volt meter only?
Have fun!!!

Leigh Weiss Brisa #155