You should measure the voltage at the alternator and at the battery.
The difference between the readings will give you an indication of the health of the wiring.
(if you have lots of resistance in the cable there will be a large difference.)
It is a good idea to check the voltatages both with no load and with a healthy electrical load - highbeams, defroster,heater fans...

I just checked mine in preparation for installing an adjustable voltage regulator in my Bosch alternator.
I read 13.5V at the battery and 13.8V at the alternator. (no load)

Most information I have seen on Bosch alternators is that they tend to have a cut-off voltage of around 13.5V
Many people have the opinion that a charging voltage of around 14 - 14.5V is better.

Here is a good link about alternators
http://www.misterfixit.com/alterntr.htm

and a link about installing and adjustable regulator
http://www.linkline.com/personal/dbarton/AdjustableVoltage.html

Todd
'88 Westy

-----Original Message-----
From: Matthew <poll7356@UIDAHO.EDU>
Sent: Oct 15, 2003 9:55 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: alternator output voltage?

what should the voltage coming off the alterator be? Is is legitimate to
measure this at the alternator or should i measure it at the battery?

<WHY? i burned up 2 headlights within a week of each other. At 15$ a
bulb i need to see if it was a fluke too much juice out of the
alternator.  Should i meaure this voltage at the light instead (they are
relayed)>

thanks
matthew
86 syncro westy