Generator Issue

[Bill4Sue]

I have not been running my 62 Electra as often as I should and would have to charge the battery overnight or jump it to start it. A friend mentioned using a Battery Tender. I bought one and have had it on for a couple of weeks, when we went out for a drive today, it started right up but now the generator light is on. I normally have 12.5 volts on the battery and when it's running there is usually about 14.25. Now there is only 12.5 when it is running, could the Battery Tender been the cause? I should have about 14.25 with the engine running, correct? Any issues with using a Battery Tender? Thank you all in advance.

[Bob]

I have used battery tenders on many vehicles over the years, and have never had any issues. I even put solar maintainers on all my trailer batteries, and my lawn tractor batteries.

You are probably just experiencing an unfortunate failure in your regulator or generator.

[Bill4Sue]

I have used battery tenders on many vehicles over the years, and have never had any issues. I even put solar maintainers on all my trailer batteries, and my lawn tractor batteries.

You are probably just experiencing an unfortunate failure in your regulator or generator.

Thanks Bob, appreciate your time

[65specialconvert]

Did you unhook your battery cable(s) with the tender on it?

[Bill4Sue]

Did you unhook your battery cable(s) with the tender on it?

No I did not, should I have?

[Bill4Sue]

No I did not, should I have?

Does it make a difference wether or not the car has an alternator or generator?

[Bob]

The voltage readings you described were typical for a failed charging system. It would not matter wether you had a generator or an alternator.

A maintainer will keep up to any normal draw on your battery, so if all is healthy, there is no need to disconnect the battery.