alternator problems

[a73formula]

What would be causing my alternator to go from 14 volts down to 10 or less while driving around and sometimes spiking as high as 16 volts for a second. Thanks for any help.

Joel

[Taman]

Sounds like a diode in the regulator is going bad. Some parts stores sell them. Maybe under $10 for an internal style rectafier.

[a73formula]

cool I'll check that out, if I get it tested would that come up?

thanks

[Taman]

Yes as a voltage spike.