Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) another battery relocation

[Swineheart]

I just moved my new batteries to the bed this summer. I used 3/0 to the starter and also moved the temp. sensor back. Now this morning at 5 below zero seem to be charging kind of of high. I tested it at 14. 9 volts then turned on the blower and headlights and dropped to 14. 5. So where do I look first to this overcharging problem?

 

[ewcmr2]

Charge voltage is temperture dependent. The colder it is the higher the charge voltage is. There is (WAS? in your case) a temp sensor under the battery.

 

[ata]

At 5 below zero there is nothing wrong with 14. 9 volts of charge. How long did you run the engine before you checked the charge voltage. A cold battery will get a higher volt charge and take longer to charge then a warm battery. That's why they put a temp sensor on the battery. On the Dodge charging system you can see a 15. 9 volt charge on a cold low battery after starting the truck and until the battery has come back to almost full charge then start to drop back to 13. 9-14. 2 volts. (16 volts is the max rate) Check the charge rate after the engine is up to temp and the batterys have a chance to warm up. On my 97 I see 14. 4 charge after starting on a 70 degree day and it will stay there for 15-20 min's. I don't think you have a problem.

 

[Swineheart]

I did my test at start up and after my drive to work about 15 miles with the same result. Today was zero out so I unplugged the sensor and the reading was 13. 7 I guess your right about the charging voltage I got nervious at a higher reading as it got colder. I believe the engine compartment heat made the reading lower last winter. those batteries are going to be cold most of the dark winter unless the suns beating down on them. I'll plug the sensor back in and quit worrying about it. Thanks for the help

 

[JKosten]

Kinda of a side question: How do you like having the weight transfer to the bed?

 

[Swineheart]

I like the weight shift, between battery,tire chains,and 100 gallon fuel tank it makes my 1 ton ride alot smoother and my friends comment on it also. I have an aftermarket bumper that added alot of weight up front and made the truck a hand full to drive in snow and ice. I feel like my tire wear up front is not as bad,but time will tell the real story.