Lights pulsing? Is my alternator getting ready to fail?

**Axhammer** · 01-18-2014, 07:51 AM

My 2000 Formula runs and drives very nice. I noticed the lights have a pulse and the amp or battery gage pulses too. It seems to be worst when I first start driving it, and seems to lessen as the length of time increases during the drive. Naturally, this is not noticeable during the daytime, since the lights are off. I was wondering if my alternator or voltage regulator are telling me it's time to replace it.

Has anyone experienced an electrical pulsing condition on thier LS1 powered F-body?

**cammed goat** · 01-19-2014, 02:41 PM

Are you running your air conditioning? That will cause a pulsing of lights ans voltage fluctuation. How many miles are on the car? Just want to zero in on the cause(s).

**Axhammer** · 01-19-2014, 03:45 PM

No AC or any other accessory that would create a drain, it's at 117K, runs like a champ!

**cammed goat** · 01-19-2014, 04:19 PM

Have you checked the wiring connections at the alternator to see if there is any corrosion or damaged connectors? Also, do you hear any noises, like whirring or squealing?

**Axhammer** · 01-19-2014, 04:59 PM

No, noises or any indications anything is wrong, other than the lights pulsing. I'll check the wiring to this alternator tomorrow. The car is clean, and drives like its new.

**cammed goat** · 01-19-2014, 05:01 PM

Ok. If anything, pull the alternator and take it to a parts store like Auto Zone and have it tested. If it tests okay, then possibly it is a wiring issue.