Archived Charging System Issue

[DRyder]

On the drive to work today the check gauges light illuminated and I found that my voltage was indicating zero. I parked the truck and shut down the engine; and upon restart it ran through the normal heating grid cycle sitting a little under 14 volts (likely 12 or so indicated) and from there it just slowly drops to 8 and the check gauges light comes on. I inspected all terminals and found the passenger neg terminal loose but restart/retest produced the same results. I also noticed that the passenger battery was off gassing something fierce. TDR/Google searches have given a multitude of possibilities, just wanted to know what the experts have to input. I'm going to have the charging system tested this afternoon; more to come. Thanks in advance,



Dave

 

[B.G. Smith]

Probably one battery has gone bad/lost a cell, the passenger side would be suspect. If you remove a cable from one battery and check voltage on both you will probably see a 1 1/2 to two volt difference. bg

 

[DRyder]

Ok, so the alternator is putting out good voltage for the system, but the passenger battery was getting hit with 17-18 volts and the drivers battery was sitting at 12. 40. Performed a load check and sulfate test on both batteries and they passed, took a closer look at the loose cable and it was the positive lead NOT the neg for the passenger battery. Cinched it down and so far the volt needle is about 15. Ill keep you posted.



Dave

 

[tp0d]

Now would be a good time to remove ALL terminals, clean male/female really good with a wire brush, apply your fav terminal anti-corrode spray, and reconnect. Sounds like the drivers battery terminals need some attention. .

good luck

-j

 

[DRyder]

Absolutely! Looks like my recent preventive mx bumped the terminal loose, all good so far. The passanger battery was boiling over a little for a minute when it was being over charged. Should I be worried about electrolyte levels? I tried to look but the battery is mx free and no access to the cells.