Is 14.6 volts OK for my charging system?

[gavio]

Since I replaced my alternator, i've noticed that my charging system runs at 14.6 volts at pretty much any engine speed over about 1500 RPM or so. It'll drop when idling to 12 volts or so.

I know that the voltage regulator is supposed to cut off at 14.6 volts, so on some level it's working, but it seems like it should usually be running at like 13.something volts - is that true?

Any idea what's happening here? Is this dangerous?

I've driven a couple thousand miles and haven't had any electrical problems (well, since the whole big bang that caused me to replace the alternator, that is).

Thanks and good day to ya.

[mhagie]

Normal range is 13.8 to 14.2 so you are only a tad to the high side.
one thing to remember is that your entire system is no better than your worst battery that is why it is recomended to replace both batteries when one goes bad.............Merle

[Dieselboy]

My 160 amp Powermaster puts out about the same. It's been a little over a year with no ill effects.

[gavio]

Yeah, mine is also a high output alternator (135 amp) so maybe that's just a side effect.

Thanks for the reassurance!

[dieselcrawler]

I'd bet you'll be ok... both of mine also run at a strong 14 volts... now that I put a new voltage regulator in one of them. The other seems to be ok. Guess you'll have to wait and see... good luck to you.
Greg