![]() An alternator charges your battery when the truck is running. Another simple test is to check your interior lights.If the truck stops, then you most likely have a problem with the alternator. A simple test to check the alternator is by running your truck and then unplugging the positive connection of the battery.If the truck runs and continues to run, then it's likely the problem is with the battery. If the alternator is failing to charge the system, the truck will soon die again and the problem has been pinpointed. Jump-start the truck and then remove the cables as quickly as possible.The hot wire scent can be caused by an overheated alternator, one pushing too much power through the rotor and stator. The scent of burning rubber or hot wires will often accompany alternator failure.Try to start the engine and listen carefully, if it produces a "whining" sound, it may be the alternator.If the battery is working properly and nothing is wrong with it, then it's the alternator that will more likely cause a problem. Test the alternator to make sure that it can start up the battery. If a fully-charged battery is still pulling 20 or more amps after five minutes of idling, the battery is defective and needs to be replaced. The charging current should likewise taper off to less than 10 amps at idle (with no lights or accessories on) after five minutes of running. ![]() The battery charging output should jump about two volts after starting the engine (14.5 volts or higher), then gradually decrease after the engine has been running for several minutes (unless the battery is really low). This can overload the charging system and lead to premature alternator failure. This, in turn, makes the alternator keep charging the battery at a higher than normal rate. If the battery just won't keep a charge even when you have turned off all accessories, then it's time to take a look at the other systems that work with the battery to run your car.ĭiagnostic Tip: If the alternator on your car has failed, it might mean your battery is not building up to normal resistance as it accepts a charge. But if the battery reads over 15 volts or less than 13 volts, then there might be a problem with the voltage regulator, the wiring, or the alternator. If the voltmeter reads between 14-15 volts then the battery is normal. Then turn on the engine again and check the battery. It should read close to 12.6 volts when the car is off. Check the battery voltage with a voltmeter.A bad battery will NOT accept or hold a charge, while a good battery can be recharged and returned to service. ![]()
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