Is it normal for the voltage to drop about 50% around every 30 seconds untill warm. It only does it when it's really cold out and the engine is cold. I think I hear a compressor kick in. Just wondering what it is and if it's normal. It's an 08 CTD. Also what takes so long for it to warm up? I turn the exhaust break on which helps some, but still takes awhile to warm up.

 

Yes this is normal. If I'm correct it is because the grid heater is cycling. Our trucks do not have glo-plugs but rather a grid heater that heats the air just before entering the block.

If I'm wrong someone who has a lot more experience will chime in and give the right answer...as well as correct me!!!

 

I have an 06 CTD 2500. Mine does the same exact thing. When it is cold outside...voltage drops to about 8.5-9VDC. I am a crane mechanic myself, and haven't seen an engine do this. I know this is far from a crane, but a grid-heater seems like the logical explanation. Other than the fact that it is annoying, trucks seem to run good.

 

Yes it is normal. I have a 2006 3500 Ram w/ diesel. I found the answer in my 2006 Owners manual on page 251 " Voltmeter Operation" in the "Starting and Operating" section.

 

This is correct

 

Thanks, didn't know there were not any glo-plugs. The owners manual; who would have thought.

 

I called the deal the first time this happened to me and the service manager told me this is a normal operation. They always forget to tell us first time diesel owners about this stuff.