Power Loss All Around

[z24ridin']

Hey I have a problem thats been bugging me for a while now. This is a 3.1 Z24. Even at idle I can definetly feel a lack in electrical power. The gauges dim to the idle. I can definetly tell a drop in stereo power. I have a newly installed CD player, but no amps or any type of system that would cause it. I also have a new battery, and nothing wrong with the terminals. I really need to get this situated because its so damn annoying and it cant be good. Any help would mean alot. thanks

[01Cavy]

Check your altanator (sp?)

[Cold_Silence]

Yep that could definitely be the alternator. Get it tested or nab a new one from a junkyard if possible and then go from there. How old is the battery?

[shakewell]

Have the alternator tested - if it's even borderline, replace it with a lifetime warranteed one. It's a GM so you will definitely want the lifetime one.

BTW, it's not the battery. But it wouldn't hurt to check the battery terminals for tightness.

[PsychoJJ]

Check terminal connections to make sure they are secure and there is no crap on them, alt., fuses (sometimes a bum fuse or two will cause things to act up) also you might want to look into picking up a grounding kit for the engine bay. My passenger side headlight was always dimmer then my driver side durring the day with the daytime running lights on and after I slapped the grounding kit in the car they are both the same now and everything else electrical wise cleaned up alot as well. This is one of the few things its totally cool to pick up off ebay for a steal.

[z24ridin']

thanks...... I just got the battery last week because it died on me but it was doing this before then. The terminals are as tight as possible, and nothings on them. I'll take the alternater off tomarrow and get it tested. thanks again.