battery gauge pegged out at 18, check gauges light came on. What does this mean. Lasted about 10 miles, then went back to normal for 5 miles then pegged out again.

 

 

2000,Dodge Dakota with 134000 miles on it

 

 

Sounds like the diode in the alternator gave out. It controls the output voltage, had it go out in my sentra and the alternator started pumping 16-18v and caused all sorts if electrical gremlins. I suggest pulling the alternator and having it tested somewhere before going anywhere else. Overvoltage can blow your ECM and battery.

 

agreed. Get the alt tested, have them run it for awhile too. Could be heat related. The voltage regulator is in the PCM, hopefully it's still good..