Internal vs. external alternator - charging question?

[beepbeep000]

So I've got a charging issue/question. Got my new engine in my '74 RR but now having some charging issues where my battery is not being/staying charged. Car runs fine once I jump it and it gets running but when I turn it off, it won't start again.

I've tested the battery and it comes back around 11.75, which I know is low but I figured it's because it's been drained down due to the aforementioned issue. Tested alternator and it shows fine. Same for the voltage regulator. All three were brand new with engine. I even replaced the alternator and regulator to see if that was the issue. Grounded straight to the block so don't think it's a grounding problem.

Anyway, I'm at wits end and so contemplating switching out the alternator for a internally regulated alternator, just running the single wire straight to the battery. Am I correct in thinking this will resolve this problem?

Second, are those strong enough to keep the battery charged and the car powered? I have one small amp in the trunk for some 6x9 speakers, and using a hi-torque mini starter as well, but other than that don't have any other big power drains.


Thoughts on any of the above?

 

[Glenwood]

what's the voltage at the battery while it's running? It should be around 13.5-14V I believe. Less than that and either the alternator or regulator or both are pooched. If the voltage looks good, the battery has some bad cells.

 

[beepbeep000]

From my previous test, if I remember right, battery showed around 11.75

 

[Glenwood]

if that's what you're reading while it's running, it's not charging. I'd double check the wiring again very carefully since the parts are new. Have you tried charging the battery back up to see if it's holding a charge? If the cells are accessible, try testing them.

Just to touch on the -neg bonding or grounding, the battery is connected to an unpainted spot on the block and a ground strap from unpainted spot on the block & firewall?