Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Electrical short ?

[alaskan diesel]

On my 99 slt quad cab I noticed the volt meter was slow to move off 8 to 14 . As the needle moved the lights got brighter and when the needle goes down the lights dim. I thought the alt was going bad so I replaced it (bosch) and both batteries but the problem is still there. Now if the truck sits more than a day it won't start and the radio made a what the heck was that noise when I turned it off. Any ideas? Thanks!

 

[PSpychalski]

Your looking at normal operation. Below 20 mph. the grid heater in the intake will cycle. In turn causing the volt meter to drop and lights dim. The slow move of volt meter from 8-14 is also normal. Without looking at you radio and start issue, it's hard to say. Check your engine grounds.

 

[Alaskaskiff]

You might check your voltage when you get that no start condition. IIRC there was an occasional problem with relays hanging up occasionally, such as the grid heater ones. Also you might check for parasitic draw. On the 3rd gen there has been an occasional issues with the thrid brake light staying on and pulling the batteries down. Good luck. Electrical gremlins suck. Just attack it methodically and you will find it.

 

[PSpychalski]

Throwing any codes???