What kind of voltage should I have

[>>SQL<< 10+ year member]

I have a voltmeter built into my Pioneer Avic-Z2 Head Unit

Anyway I just installed a system in my honda.

Volts when system turned down is 13.8

Volts when playing loud is around 12.2

I have not done the Big 3 yet.

What do you think? Am I good?

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[sacsking916 5,000+ posts]

No your not good. Do the big 3 first and then upgrade from there.

 

[grandam888 10+ year member]

do big three, and if yor still hovering around 12, go with an HO alternator. Alternator reach their max amperage output around 12.5 volts. once you drop that low an extra battery or two may not even help.

so upgrade big three, check voltage afterwards, if not running around 13volts(with engine revs above 1000rpm) then go with HO alternator.

 

[>>SQL<< 10+ year member]

Ok - thank you for the info

I had the car idling - I want to check tomorrow while driving to see what the voltage is.

I am looking for 13+ volts

I will see what I have.

 

[keep_hope_alive Premium Member]

Don't forget about the ELD in your Honda. An HO alt means nothing if you don't bypass that.

Honda Electrical Load Detection (ELD) Bypass - Honda Accord Forum - Honda Accord Enthusiast Forums

H.O. Alternator replacement and big 3 wiring - Honda Accord Forum - Honda Accord Enthusiast Forums

 

[>>SQL<< 10+ year member]

thank you.

I am checking to see if my 97 has this feature

 

[keep_hope_alive Premium Member]

most Honda since the early 90's have an ELD. Saves gas.

It is located in the engine fuse box, top or bottom. A Haynes manual will detail where and how.

 

[>>SQL<< 10+ year member]

I checked te voltage while driving today.

And with the system up I have 13.4 - 13.7

I was kinda surprised to see 41.1 with the system down.

Either way I think it is just fine so I am not going to worry about it.