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Quick alternator question:

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Old 11-12-2010, 12:18 PM
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Default Quick alternator question:

Recently the lights on my truck are flickering slightly, and really visible when the dome lights are on. Now even the dash lights are doing it, and when I rev the engine it kind of goes away. The volt meter on the dash says the alternator it is charging at 14.5 volts, and when I put a multimeter on the battery posts with the engine running it says 14.55 to 14.6 volts. Once, the dash volt meter went off the chart past the 18 volt mark and caused the chime to sound and a check gage light to come on. I stopped the truck and then restarted it, and the volts went back to normal. This has happened twice. Is this a sign of a failing alternator? Winter is approaching fast, and I need a reliable alternator. Thanks!
 
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Old 11-12-2010, 01:02 PM
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Take it to ORielys to get tested.
 
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Old 11-12-2010, 05:35 PM
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Isn't the regulator in the PCM? (which, in this case, would be more likely to be the failing part??)
 
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Old 11-12-2010, 07:00 PM
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^Yup, it sure is!
 
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Old 11-12-2010, 07:28 PM
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Have the battery checked too. What does the voltmeter read on the battery when the truck is off?
 
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Old 11-16-2010, 02:37 PM
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Brand new battery this summer.
 
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Old 11-16-2010, 04:50 PM
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Originally Posted by VOATMJ1
Brand new battery this summer.

It could be defective, and it won't hurt to have it checked.
 



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