Serowbot wrote on 12/31/69 at 16:00:10: .... Checked voltage...10 volts.
...long way home, made a couple thrift shop stops, maybe 20 miles, check the voltage at home, 17 volts!!!
After sitting about 30 minutes it's down to 16.5 volts.
Is that normal? Or am I in trouble?
Low volts either the alternator isn't putting out or the regulator is stopping it. High volts the alternator is putting out but the regulator isn't stopping it -- over charging the battery, causing acid to boil away, etc.. If this was a car I'd be replacing the regulator -- NOW! And the battery as it has definitely been toastered.
SavageWahine wrote on 12/31/69 at 16:00:10:These things don't explode do they??
Overcharged lead acid batteries have been known to do so, or so I've heard. Not something I've check out myself. Yet.