Alternator Scamp /6

Thanks 67Dart273 for the information Ill check into it more and see if it’s an old battery or alternator.
To answer the question and provide more info I do have an aftermarket stereo installed, and yes after I start the engine and the choke kicks on it stays at that 40+. It only drops after I take off choke and idles, but when driving again (reverse and drive) it spikes again to 40+. It stays like that while throttling. Now today while driving I simply tapped on the gauge itself with my finger and it sparked and the needle fell off. So I am wondering if I have some wires touching behind the dash that could have made this occur. I’ am going to do some more investigation in morning.
Sorry if I do not respond right away I work nights.
Thanks
Van Leer