Why would my old alternator and my new one both be putting out only 11 volts?

I put in a new voltage regulator with the change.

This van is a wiring nightmare. The Feds had a bunch of electronics in it that they ripped out. Could this be a place to start my search?

Should mention that this thing has the duel battery option so the battery side connector goes there first. When I metered it I went straight from the alternators bat. post though.

 

Don't know how much help we can provide if any, but would be helpful to know what year , what engine and any other info you can provide.

 

Thanks, I spaced out.

1991 E-250 3.8l (351ci).

 

On the voltage regulator make sure the "Field" wire (marked "F") is good from there to the alternator connection also marked "Field". This is the wire that "tells" the Alt. increase output to supply charging voltage.

 

Great! I was just talking about this at dinner with friends. I was saying that something has to "talk" to the alt from the VR.
I'll check that in the morning (this being Saturday night).

 

theXlo8tors,

You were right. It took a little doing but I found a break in the field wire to the VR.

Thanks for your help.

OldBob

 

Glad you found the problem.

Thanks for posting an update, and you're welcome. Glad I was of some help.