1985 Electrical Problem

[Premiumfuel]

After installing a custom stereo system, I upgraded my Alternator to the larger amp model that Corvette went to later in the year. Everything worked fine or so I thought last fall. Turns out one of the amplifiers was not turning off with the ignition so the battery went dead and froze. I attempted a jump start but nothing. I replaced the battery and the car starts fine, but now the voltmeter reads anywhere from 17.1 to 21.1 and the check engine light comes on. When I drop to idle, the voltage decreases and the light goes off. My understanding is that the voltage regulator is in the alternator and not a separate unit like in the old days. Any ideas or questions to help me pinpoint the problem? BTW the reason I updgraded the alternator was because the stereo seemed to be drawing a lot of power. Thaks, guys (and gals).

[SwaveDave]

Originally Posted by Premiumfuel

After installing a custom stereo system, I upgraded my Alternator to the larger amp model that Corvette went to later in the year. Everything worked fine or so I thought last fall. Turns out one of the amplifiers was not turning off with the ignition so the battery went dead and froze. I attempted a jump start but nothing. I replaced the battery and the car starts fine, but now the voltmeter reads anywhere from 17.1 to 21.1 and the check engine light comes on. When I drop to idle, the voltage decreases and the light goes off. My understanding is that the voltage regulator is in the alternator and not a separate unit like in the old days. Any ideas or questions to help me pinpoint the problem? BTW the reason I updgraded the alternator was because the stereo seemed to be drawing a lot of power. Thaks, guys (and gals).

ME : Wish i could help you with this. The guys over at www.corvetteforum.com in the 'Audio' DG are pretty sharp. Maybe give em a try.

Good luck, Dave