What do you guys think

[DarrellB]

The temps have really dropped around here this week, and when I started the truck to come to work tonight it was about 37 outside. I had to use the grid heaters and when they were done cycling I started the truck and the check gauges light came on. I looked at the gauges and noticed the amp gauge was almost bottomed out and it seemed like the truck cranked kind of hard. Do you guys think it's the batteries going south or something else? They are the original batteries and I have about 60,000 miles on the truck.



Thanks for the help

Big D

 

[illflem]

You're describing what my trucks did before the batteries went south to a T. Mine lasted quite a bit longer though, 5 yrs, but there are many factors in how long they will last. I went with Red Top Optimas and have been very pleased. They may cost a bit more but the long free replacement warranty and lack of corrosion makes them worth it. Always replace both at the same time.

 

[SnoKing]

Battery time, assuming that you have clean connections at the batteries. I would clean all the connections first, also check grounds at the engine. SNOKING

 

[DarrellB]

WoW that was fast. I posted that like 10 minutes ago. Glad to see I'm not the only one with nothing to do besides play on the puter.



Thanks guys I thought the batteries were it but wasn't for sure. I'm going to see if I can find a Interstate dealer around here and pick up a couple next week. What size should I put on 750s or bigger?



Thanks again

Big D

 

[Ron Bissett]

Have you serviced the battrys , clean post cable ends test with a digital amp meeter imput from the altnator to each battry . You could have a drain on battry from some thing like too many lights and not enough run time to recharge battry ,guage should show about 14 amps when recovering after start then stay at 12-13 amps on dash guage , check with a digital guage you could rig with temp wire from battys to cab to compare the guage in dash as a start both at halt and on the road with normal load day and night then decide if new battrys are in order . LOL Ron in Louisville KY

 

[BFC]

Damn you Big D

You cursed my truck! Got down to mid 30's this morning, same thing happened when I started it. It's your fault... ... ... ... .



Glenn

 

[RHARVEY]

The last time I replaced the batteries, it was a 4 hr job! But I did a little bit more than just a straight replacement. I took warm water and baking soda and washed everything within reach of the batteries(tray,hold down brackets ect). Installed the new batteries with felt pads under the terminals.



Rick

 

[illflem]

Rick, if you had used Optimas or some other brand of gel cell there would have been no cleanup since they don't corrode. Almost a good enough reason for me.

 

[DarrellB]

Glenn, Sorry about the batteries, just put in 2 optimas today. Not the cheapest thing in the world but they should last a long time. $288 for both , but the truck turns over alot faster now and the lights don't dim quite as bad when the grid heaters cycle. I also put some wiredry on all the connections, was a couple hour project but I would rather spend a couple hours than have to ask a Ford for a jump.



Big D

 

[Dennis Garrett]

don't take any chances with a weak battery, low voltage is hard on electric motors, like starters