Ok, odd issue, turn key ok, volt gauge reads 12v, start it up reads 12v still. Put a meter on the battery, reads 14.2v so the alternator is charging. While driving the gauge will either go to 14v or drop all the way so check gauges light comes on.

In either situation if I put a meter on the battery the alt is charging.

Checked all connections, clean , no corrosion,

Any ideas?

 

Other info - 97 xj 4.0 auto

At night, when first running the dash lights are dim when the volts are reading 12 on dash,

When the gauge decides if it goes up or down, even when down and check gauges light on, dash lights brighten.

If I shut it off and restart the jeep, most of the time the gauge goes up to 14v on the dash. Been like this for a while, 3 weeks, never had to jump it or charge battery.

 

I guess ill just drive it and hope it doesn't stand me until I can afford to take it to the stealership....