voltage levels

[str12-340]

I'm on the road, 2200 miles into a 5000 mile road trip. A 1970 Dart, 318, all new M&H wiring throughout. New stock output alternator, group 24 battery, 70 style regulator. When I start the car in the morning (cold) the ammeter goes to 15 to 30 amps and then comes down to just barely charging in a couple minutes. The voltmeter goes to around 14.4 volts and then after 20 minutes comes down to around 13.5 volts. Is this level of voltage OK??? I don't understand why it starts so high and then comes down. After the car is up to temp, it starts immediately, amps down in 20 seconds, volts around 13.5.

 

[Dana67Dart]

That sounds perfect.

Cold engine is drawing more amps out of the battery, takes a bit more time and higher current to recharge the battery.

When battery needs charging the voltage will be higher but as the battery gets closer to full the voltage can come down a bit.

 

[str12-340]

Thanks for easing my troubled mind!!!

 

[Mattax]

Basically its working correctly. The voltage seems a little low but it (voltage) can depend on where it is being measured.
If you have a hand held meter, the voltages can be investigated further.