Oh, 18 posts and im already whining! Anyway. this is about my 1996 Avalon XLS. Today I changed out my wiper fluid (cheap brand, froze up) And when I was done with that project, I closed up, started the car, and drove back home.
However, I noticed after turnover the system voltage was at 12 volts idle. (normal) But when I would accelerate (~1500-2000RPM) the voltage would only rise to 12.3-12.8 Volts. Granted before this my charging system was 14.2 Volts. Im running a stock alternator (unsure if its 80 or 100 amps) and an Optima Deep Cycle. Modfied eletrical system out the butt if you know me.
It may be too soon to tell as I only drove the car for 5-10 minutes, but what I want to know, Is my alternator shot? perhaps the battery? (but why woudl that relate to a low charging voltage) Now when I was changing my frozen wiper fluid, I was using hot/boiling water in the tank to melt the ice and purge the system. some small spashes occored, and If you know the layout, the alternator is right next door. Would Water really cook the alternator? (regulator, perhaps?)
Another variable to toss in is that my headlights were on part of the time chaing my fluidszz (auto lamp function, really didn't care, done worse to the car) and the battery was getting a tad drained (10.5-11.5 volts)before I staretd the car.
If the Alternator is indeed shot I'll probably get a 130 amp from a Highlander, though thats a nice 200 dollar dent.
Super duper thanks in advance! Lots of text I know.
'96 Electrical System
Linear Mode
