Quote:
Originally Posted by jjzepplin
Its a one wire Powermaster. Shouldn't it be about 14.5 volts?
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You are correct, but if the alternator isn't connected to the vehicle wiring circuit the internal regulator can't sense the vehicle current draw and it defaults to full output, which is usually 16 to 18 volts. You may have a faulty regulator or blown diodes in the alternator.
The output voltage is high but if the amperage is low, less than a few amps, it won't burn up anything. I would be safe and take it to one of the auto parts. stores like AutoZone and get them to test it.
Were you getting DC volts or AC volts on your reading?