Batterys low before I start engine

[red1ton]

Lately I noticed the battery voltage is around 8/9 volts when I first turn on the key. The truck starts fine and the charging system brings the voltage up to 15 volts in a couple of minutes. I first noticed the problem on my gauges. They have a battery symbol that blinks if the voltage is too low. Lately the gauges would not even turn on the last couple of trips. I guess it is because the battery voltage is too low for the gauges to operate.



I don't seem to have any other problems with the electrical system. Does anyone know what is going on?



I don't want to take the truck to the dealer.

 

[maint.man]

I think , even though you live in CA. that what you are seeing is the grid heater turning on for the initial start - up . When I start mine it usually pulls the volt meter down to about 8 then when the wait to start light go's out it will hit about 13 , once the truck is running everything is OK.

 

[Deezul1]

Mine does the same thing. The grid heaters will go on at about 59 deg or less as soon as the key is on and will pull it down to 8-9 volts for about 15 seconds and then it comes some up and will cycle for a little. I think it quits after a certain speed is reached.

 

[Kimrey]

Dido, on what they said. That heater can pull some juice!

 

[americana]

i'm in san carlos (just north of san jose for those not from around here). my truck does the same thing. BUT i'm not noticing it go back up! i'll keep my eye on it, but if it doesn't does it mean it is time for new optimas? say it ain't so 'cause they're expensive and only a year old!!

 

[CCOLLAR]

Americana,



Did you change your oil filter recently? The B+ terminal on the alternator is fairly close to the oil filter, and you may arc across the terminal to the filter with the filter wrench. This will blow the GENERATOR fuse in the PDC. Basically, this will stop your alternator from charging your batteries. I've seen this happen once (and will never let anyone change my oil again).



FYI - I'm in San Carlos, too! If you need any help, just let me know.



Craig

 

[americana]

ccollar,



i'm on howard. matter of fact howard seems to be diesel central. lots of pherd$ and cummins drive by. olga gets parked half under the carport so you can see her anytime you drive by. come on over for a beer.



i've got an amsoil dual bypass mounted on the passenger side battery. and i haven't been near the original oil filter area in over a year