2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Intermittent electrical Drain at idle

[BigDan]

When I start up my Cummins and let it warm up there seems to be a drain on my electrical system. Every 10 seconds or so I hear a click and all of my lighting goes dim for about 4 seconds and returns to "normal" then repeats. Is this normal?? I'm not sure if it only does it on start up mut it may do it all of the time.



Thanks

BigDan





Is this the grid heater???

 

[kiwi bird]

Yes, it's the grid heater cycling normally.

 

[Jetson]

No, don't you remember Star Wars, when those power sucking leaches attached to the space ship? That's what's going on, don't let these guys fool you. Better check for those power suckers!

 

[illflem]

If it's not cold enough for the grids and you have the A/C or defrost on at idle the compressor will cycle on and off, each time it does the is also a click and a short voltage drop.

 

[jzenk]

Sounds like the grid heater. I believe it cycles fo three minutes after the engine is started. When rpm is increased off idle the heater no longer functions ( at least mine doesn't!) Good luck!!!