What is the sitting voltage of battery? Best time to measure is first thing in the morning. S/B at least 12.7 volts.

 

I am at work so my best option is to drive 4 miles to Harbor freight and get a voltage meter there. How long do I have to let the car sit in order to get an accurate voltage reading? What is the proper running voltage?

 

Check the battery voltage while the car is running (13 or higher), immediately after you turn it off (12.3 or higher), and 1st thing in the morning before you start it (12.3 or higher).

Check the battery terminals for corrosion and make sure they are not loose. Also look for a date on the battery to see how old it is. You can get the battery tested free at places like Auto Zone, Advance Auto, etc.

 

Could be corroded battery terminals, battery going out or alternator failing. You could have everything tested at a good auto parts store. The tester checks battery health, starting system voltage and alternator output.

 

Did my post not answer your questions?

 

I am at work so my best option is to drive 4 miles to Harbor freight and get a voltage meter there. How long do I have to let the car sit in order to get an accurate voltage reading? What is the proper running voltage?

 

Did my post not answer your question?

 

Thank you all for your help. The voltage was low and I determined that it was indeed the alternator. I bought a battery charger because the voltage kept decreasing and the battery was at 60% charge. I charged it up to 80% and disconnected it again when I got home.

I am confident the alternator is the issue because the car stopped running the instant the negative terminal was removed. I ordered an alternator and I'm hoping that there's no additional work like the belt or tensioner.

 

Might as well charge the battery to 100% so your replacement alternator doesn't get off to a bad start trying to charge a low battery. They heat up fast when you do that. Check the condition of the belt and tensioner while you are already working on that end of the engine so you don't have to go back and do it later.

 

I got it tested and it is for sure the alternator. It had 0 volts coming out of it. I should have the new one in a few days. Fingers crossed that it all goes smoothly. 🤞🍀

 

The new alternator fixed everything. I made sure to check the fuses, battery, and alternator belt and all worked great.

I appreciate everyone who commented here.

 

Hadn't noticed before, nice Cat pic!