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Alternator troubleshooting

Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2010 10:05 pm
by Twin Pinzies
I have an issue with the charging system. I had a shop install a rebuilt alternator (2 yrs. ago) and it seems to not be working. I drive this truck so infrequently, that I think the truck ran straight off the batteries the whole time and are now dead. The battery light on the dash stays on constantly.
The batteries were brand new and have been recharged, the v-belt is tensioned, the ground wire from the alt. (under the engine cover) is good, the wires throughout the truck look good (not frayed or lose anywhere).
What am I missing? Is it simply a bunk rebuild? Or was it installed wrong? WTF?

Thanks in advance for your help you guys.

Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2010 10:20 pm
by Jim LaGuardia
Try a different regulator, I find more bad regulators than alternators. When in doubt, swap it out with a known good one.

Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2010 10:29 pm
by Twin Pinzies
Jim LaGuardia wrote:Try a different regulator, I find more bad regulators than alternators. When in doubt, swap it out with a known good one.
Oh yeah, forgot to mention, the voltage regulator is fresh too.