I checked the charging voltage of the alternator, and it measured 18 volts while running. Worried about an exploding battery and dreadful electrical malfunctions, i took it to a alternator rebuild and they tested it there as i watched.

Their tests had it charging at 14.4 volts. Their voltage checker was a damn sight better than mine. I then applied my $20 voltage meter, and it read 18. BOING! They suggested my voltometer needed a new battery or was junked.

I almost bought a new volatge regulator etc. based on the voltage reading of that cruddy meter.

lesson: get a second opinion, in case your test equipment needs testing.

I can relate. I started dissecting and resoldering my Klima relay not too long ago because I thought I wasn't getting voltage to the pressure switch. Turns out one of my test leads went bad while using them Turns out I had too much air-gap on the compressor clutch. When I got the car the a/c would cut out at idle because the battery voltage would drop and disengauge the compressor.