The Stovebolt Site Forums The Parking Lot '60-'66 Trucks Electrical problems.

I have been doing some work on the 64 and now have a Charging issue. When running, the battery tester is reading 11.8V at idle. the alternator is new (Leece-Neville 60 Amp with voltage adjust)and is 1 wire(to positive on battery)and is internally regulated. A lead is coming off the same positive post on the alternator and leads into the cab on the ignition switch. The HEI, Accesories, Dash, and solenoid jumper go into the switch. I am using a 67-72 switch, and all connections are plugged into their labeled spades accordingly. The only other thing I have done is rebuild the headlight switch. Is there any way if the switch is built wrong, it will take a small draw off the battery? For the past week, the cranking has become slower and slower until yesterday when It stopped, not even a click. Now today it still does it. I have a new battery. Also the battery tester needle does not move when I whack the gas, it just stays at 11.8. Also the alternator has a negative post, does that need to be grounded to charge??? I was told that you need an ammeter to show the charging and that is the problem, but would like other advice.
Any help would be appreciated,
Vince

Way over my head. Consider (also) posting to the electrical forum. Maybe some quick help in there.
HB

Also the alternator has a negative post, does that need to be grounded to charge???

Good question.

Here's a LINK to some info I found, hope it helps.

I don't know about all of the wiring but it sounds like your not charging at all. when its running you should be getting somewhere around 13 to 14 bolts. when its not running it should be 12 or a little over. you should test the alternator itself or have it tested where you bought it and that will tell you if its wiring or just a bad alt. I also agree with hambone that you should try the electrical forum

yes,ground the alternator.