Charging System - Volt Meter Fluctuation Information
INFORMATIONBulletin No.: 07-06-03-009B
Date: February 05, 2010
Subject: Information on Voltmeter Gauge Fluctuation Due to Regulated Voltage Control System and Concerns About Camper/Trailer Battery Charging
Models:
2005-2010 Cadillac Escalade Models
2005-2010 Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado, Silverado Classic, Suburban, Tahoe
2005-2010 GMC Sierra, Sierra Classic, Yukon Models
Supercede:
This bulletin is being revised to add the 2010 model year. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 07-06-03-009A (Section 06 - Engine/Propulsion System).
Voltmeter Fluctuation Condition
Some customers may comment that the voltmeter is fluctuating between 12 and 14 volts on their full size pickup or utility vehicle. Starting with the 2005 model year, light duty full size pickups and utilities are equipped with a Regulated Voltage Control (RVC) system. This system reduces the targeted output of the generator to 12.6-13.1 volts when in "Fuel Economy Mode" to improve fuel economy. The generator may exit "Fuel Economy Mode" if additional voltage is required. This will cause the voltmeter to fluctuate between 12 and 14 volts as opposed to non-regulated systems that usually maintain a more consistent reading of 14 volts. This fluctuation with the RVC system is normal system operation and NO repairs should be attempted.
Camper/Trailer Battery Charging Concerns
Some customers may comment that when towing or hauling a camper/trailer, the auxiliary battery for the camper/trailer will not stay charged. In most cases, this concern is blamed on the new RVC system. While the RVC system does reduce the generator's targeted output voltage to 12.6-13.1 volts when in "Fuel Economy Mode", this feature is bypassed if the tow/haul feature is enabled. With the tow/haul feature enabled, the RVC system will stay in "Charge Mode" and the targeted generator output voltage will be 13.9-15.5 volts, depending on the battery state of charge and the estimated battery temperature. To keep the generator in the "Charge Mode", use either of the following two methods.
- The first method is to use the tow/haul mode when towing or hauling a camper or trailer.
- The second method is to turn on the headlights, which will increase the generator's targeted output voltage to 13.9-14.5 volts.
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