Voltage Spikes

[RonnieWood]

I purchased a 2004 Ram Quad Cab 3500 4x4 dually in November. It has the 5. 9 HO Cummins engine. In December, I began noticing when the engine is started, until it gets warm, there is a voltage inconsistency that causes the lights to dim/brighten. When you press on the accelerator pedal and let up again on it, it causes the voltage "spikes". Even when it is idleing, it does it also, but not as frequent as when you press on the accelerator. It seems you can hear the "clicking" off and on of possibly a voltage regulator or something under the passenger side of the dashboard. Does anyone have this problem, or is this normal for the Cummins/Dodge diesel?

 

[klenger]

That is caused by the engine grid heaters cycling on and off. Normal for operation in cold weather. It stops after the engine begins to warm up.

 

[RonnieWood]

Thanks for the reply. I was hoping nothing was wrong with my new truck. Was hoping someone knew what this was before I took it back to the dealer.



Thanks!