The MGF Register Forums

i have tested the alternator with the engine running by checking the volage accross the battery.
It comes up as 13.7v
I am sure that at idle this should read 14.4 or about that and certainly over 14v.
The battery keeps running flat, and the alternator light flickers now and again
belt slips when cold.
Should I tighten belt and see if the volts increase?
Or as I suspect the alternator is on its way out
The car is a 2000 1.8VVC.
Thoughts please

Where did you read the voltage, it will be highest at the alternator and lower at the battery.

A slipping alternator belt when cold can be an indication that the alternator is being worked hard to replenish the battery after a cold start.

Check the condition of the belt and it's tension before condemning the alternator.