Charging System operation acting strange

[bry1216]

Not so fast JR:

System Voltage Low Message - Each time the cluster receives a message from the PCM indicating the electrical system voltage is less than 11.5 volts, the check gauges indicator will be illuminated. The indicator remains illuminated until the cluster receives a message from the PCM indicating the electrical system voltage is greater than 12.0 volts (but less than 16.6 volts), or until the ignition switch is turned to the Off position, whichever occurs first.


Charge Fail Message - Each time the cluster receives a message from the PCM indicating a charge fail condition (system voltage is 10.8 volts or lower), the gauge needle is moved to the 8 volt graduation on the gauge scale and the check gauges indicator is illuminated. The gauge needle remains on the 8 volt graduation and the check gauges indicator remains illuminated until the cluster receives a message from the PCM indicating there is no charge fail condition (system voltage is 10.9 volts or higher, but lower than 16.7 volts), or until the ignition switch is turned to the Off position, whichever occurs first.

On models equipped with the optional diesel engine, the instrument cluster is programmed to support the voltmeter gauge needle above the low end of normal graduation and suppress the check gauges indicator operation until ten seconds after the engine intake manifold air heater has completed its cycle.

 

[DavidC]

I do not see anywhere if it is indeed "Check Engine" as stated by the OP in the original post or as we assume "Check Gauges". Which one is it ?. While in Minot I did see the "Check Gauges" a few times but it was alot colder than the 50's as stated.

Dave

 

[JR]

When the engine is running and cold, it is normal to see the voltmeter fluctuate up and down (the
headlights will also dim) as the heaters cycle on and off. At around 15mph, the heater cycle is
disabled. If a relay sticks on while the engine is running, the voltmeter will slowly drop below 9V
and eventually the "Check Gauges" light and chime will activate


http://dodgeram.org/tech/dsl/troubleshooting/Maniford_htr.htm

 

[bry1216]

Hey JR:

You forgot to document something.

NOTE: This is a personal web page and is not affiliated
with DaimlerChrysler or Cummins in any way.

Statements made above by me are copied directly from the Service Manual.

 

[JR]

Service manuals are good sources for hard parts, things that don't change, not so good for TSBs, recalls, etc. That website is affiliated with Geno's and is a good source of information and in this case, more accurate than a service manual with 15+ year old information.

The last paragraph you copied from your service manual is the only thing relevant, it says:

On models equipped with the optional diesel engine, the instrument cluster is programmed to support the voltmeter gauge needle above the low end of normal graduation and suppress the check gauges indicator operation until ten seconds after the engine intake manifold air heater has completed its cycle.

Again, if the OP (or anyone else) is getting a check gauge light due to low voltage immediately after start up, ESPECIALLY in 50 degree weather, something is wrong with the charging system. It is not normal operation.

 

[Tractorat]

Ever get this figured out ?