A voltmeter measures electrical
system pressure in volts. A voltmeter only needs to tap into an electrical
circuit (we are tapped into the power to
the Fuel Gauge). Voltmeter installation is easy, quick, and safe: It hooks
up to a fused, ignition-switched "off/on" source.
The voltmeter directly measures the result of charging-system performance. With normal alternator/voltage-regulator function, battery voltage is maintained at 14.0 to 14.5 volts-and this is reported directly by the voltmeter. In the event of alternator-system failure, voltage will be low and continue to drop as the battery discharges. In the event of an "overcharge" condition, the voltmeter will climb above its normal zone.
Voltmeter with battery power and engine off. |
Voltmeter with engine operating. 14.5 volts |
NOTE: Fuel Gauge points straight up because it has power but no signal.