The T2 (sense) wire, the smaller of these "two red wires that come together", should ideally be connected back in the electrical system under the dash somewhere (that is how GM designed it) instead of to the output lug on the alternator.
THANK you! I just did that (to the ammeter), and it made a huge difference! Now it goes back above 14v when the fans are turned on.
Thank you to everyone for your help.