I am having some charging problems on my 1987 240 wagon with Automatic transmission. The alternator is putting out a little less than 12 volts when the car is running, measured at the battery and at the B+ terminal on the alternator. I have replaced the alternator and it still is not charging. I have have also replaced the battery, the ground wire from the alternator to the block, and the wire from the D+ to the connector at the fire wall. I have also disconnected the D+ wire and jumpered direct to the battery. None of this has has helped. I have checked the voltage at the starter, the battery, and at the alternator, and they all read 11.5-11.7, so I don't think there is a problem with the fat red wire from the alternator to the starter and battery.

The battery light does not come on when the car is running, even though it is only putting out 11.6 volts. The battery light does come on when the key is on and the car is not started so the bulb is good.

I think I have checked and cleared all of the wires to the new alternator, so I am wondering what it could be. Could it be a large load on the system somewhere? I been having fuel pump problems lately and the main pump is making alot on noise like the pumps are under strain. Could these 2 issues be related.

I am out of ideas and would appreaciate some advice. I am planning on taking the alternator back tomorrow to have it tested to eliminate it as a problem, even though it is new.

Thanks

Bart