So I’ve been having this issues where my truck is starting and running but it has no power like at all recently. There seems to be a Ton of heat coming from the engine bay and exhaust but it’s not overheating. And just today the check gauges light came on but all the gauges are fine and I’ve never had a check engine light. Also I’m not sure if it’s normal but the alternator seems to get really hot.

 

Alternator might be the reason for no power. Check gauges means that you need to take a closer look to specific gauge, in this case I assume your voltage gauge is reading lower that normal, 12 volts or so.

 

That’s what I had thought but I’ve replaced the alternator and had it checked and it’s charging. The gauge is reading around 12 volts. Is that normal? I thought it used to sit around 13-14. Also it’s died on my way to work and now won’t start. So clearly electrical I’m just kind of lost

 

12 volts is reading the battery. If the alternator is charging, it should read 13.5 to 14.5 volts. It could be higher if your battery is discharged. Autozone and other parts places will check your alternator and battery if you take it in. They do that for free as if you need something, they have it to sell you.

 

Alright I’m doing that right now I’ll let you know

 

So the alternator isn’t charging on the truck but it’s still working when I have it tested. I’m thinking the voltage regulator went out which is part of the ecm so I’m looking into installing a external regulator

 

There is a write up for that around here somewhere..... check the DIY section.

 

Did you check the fuse in the power distribution box?