When I have my truck at idle, my lights on and I turn on my heater fan to max, the voltmeter and lights dim. Could this be a sign of a bad alternator or a possible ground?

Thanks

1992 F250 4X4
460

 

Yes, factory Ford alternators suck. Plain and simple. You can replace it with another junk 65amp or get a 130A for a bit more cash.

A place called Alter Start Systems here in Dallas sells HO alternators. I can't find their number tho, a call to directory assistance should help. They are off Davis St and Loop 12.

 

Dallas TX 1-800-607-0016
www.4alterstart.com
alterstart(No Email Addresses In Posts!)

There ya go!

 

Ditto on the low power alternators. Why in the heck does a horking big, "heavy Duty" truck have a whimpy 65Amp alternator. Heck, my Chebby car has a 150? Amp alternator. I guess because the cops like my model and use a lot of lights etc, it comes with a big alternator.

My F250 also dims the lights if I am at a light and have headlights and fan and maybe wipers on. The gauge does drop a lot under heavy load. Even freeway driving, the gauge will be lower if I draw a lot of juice.

I guess this is the nature of our beasts. If it bothers you enough, go for the heavy duty alternator.

Good Luck,

Jim Henderson

 

[updated:LAST EDITED ON 23-Sep-02 AT 05:16 PM (EST)]This is normal operation for a Ford truck. Mines been doing this since new (93 F150XLT). If you;re not having trouble with keeping your battery charged don't worry about it. Save your money.