Battery Life??

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what is the battery life for my 98 I bought in 12/97(original batteries)?? Can't find anything on batteries. Problem is when I start, heat grid cycles then as amps are starting to rise,check engine light comes on again and amps drop down, then process happens again(amps stay low) - Wont go up to 14 at all>>>> just a note- was replacing exhaust gasket yesterday and ratchet handle tapped back off altenator(where cable is) and gave off little spark. Could altenator now be bad? One battery is black in test eye and the other is clear(dont like to go by those test eyes though) Any suggestions?? THANKS

 

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If your lucky you just blew the fuse, if your not lucky then you ate the the regulator and I think its in the computer. I really think there is a big fuse in the under hood fuse panel that protects the computer. Pete

 

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Just replaced the OEM batteries about 2 months ago in my '97 . Bought new in 9/96.
Sounds like you may have blown that big fuse under the hood . Bad news is it's only available at your friendly Dodge dealer.

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'97 2500 4X4 club cab, BLACK, Leer XL-100,running boards , cup smoothie, EZ Drain, 103,000 miles

 

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YOU GUYS HIT THE NAIL RIGHT ON THE HEAD! 140 amp alt fuse was blown. Once again my membership paid for itself---THANK YOU
PS can i drive it with that blown fuse??

 

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rednut,
With blown fuse alternator won't charge battery. If Dodge dealer is close by you mite make it but with your intake heaters sucking that much juice I woulnt't try to go very far. Also just in case battery runs out of juice tie you shaft of fuel shut off solenoid in the up position this way the engine will keep running. If your running auto trans shifting will be come a problem with out juice. In case you have auto un plug fuel shut off soleniod after you tie up shaft give you a better chance of making it to your desination. Turn off all unnecessary accessories. If you can charge batteries before you take off.

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Bill Thomas
Missouri Mule - 96 Wht 4X4 ST CC,5 spd, 3. 54, 8 ft bed, 1 ft high cheater boards.
99 Freightliner bl/wht FL60 ISB-5. 9 24v,215 hp,520 tq,6 spd, 3. 59 nsr,16 ft box, 19. 5 tires,Wt/gvw 11,000/23000

 

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Eric,I was able to get the 140 amp fuse at my local autoparts. You can drive but your batteries won't charge.

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95' 25004X4,AT,Driftwood,Banks Stinger,Warn fender flairs and running boards(work truck)
95 3500,5 speed 3:54,BD E-brake,Driftwood,Banks&Psycotty,34,000 GCVW apple and tractor hauler(works harder truck)