So far Ive replaced the alternator, battery, voltage regulator, starter soleniod, ignition switch.
I checked for ground from battery
Can anyone tell me why my alternator isn't charging my battery???
I swapped the new alternator for another new one so I don't think it's a bad one.
Anything can help.
Thanks, Dan

 

I'd start tracing the wiring for a bad connection or break in a wire. You should get a shop manual if you don't already have one. Do you have a wiring diaghram of the truck? You might be able to get one on this site or someone can post a pic of it, so you can trace it out properly. It gets expensive throwing parts at it hoping you'll fix it.

Barry

 

thanks barry, Im going to do that more thoroughly.
Do you happen to know what the little cylinder thing is that has a small wire leading into the voltage regulator. I broke the black thing in the wire. Anybody have a clue what Im trying to say???

 

It's a condenser for static in the radio. About a 1-1/4 long, 3/4 diameter?
Barry

 

Yeah check for bad wires. Trace every one thorughly and try to find a break in the wire. Also if the insualtion has rotted off it will corrode the wiring inside and ruin it. Is is possible you have a bad battery or voltage regulator?

 

Dan66

Iv'e got another question for you.

How long before the battery goes dead? If it is taking overnight or longer there may be something draining it while it isn't running.

Other wise I think the guys above are right with checking the wires.

jd

 

yeah jd
If I leave the battery hooked up it will drain beyond starting voltage in about 5hours.

 

Also, when I connect the red cable to the battery, there is a spark. Normally I wouldn't mention it, but should that be happening on a truck this old. Why would the circuit be completed? No computer, or clock???

Just thought Id mention it.

 

It sounds like you should be looking for what ever is draining the battery. I don't get any arch at all when connecting my battery.

Does the truck have an old trailer brake assembly under the dash? It sounds like a big drain to be pulling down the battery in just 5 hours. The dome light left on would take overnight to drain a battery.

Good luck

jd

 

Yes Jd
there is an old trailer hitch/brake assembly. It even has hydrolic lines tying into the brake line. There is a red wire coming from the battery, and a wire from the starter soleniod and they come through the dash but they are loose. The red line from the positive has what looks like a transistor on the end of it. I didn't know what to do so I left them alone.

 

Check the back of the ignition switch for a broken lug or cracked isolator near the center screw. Temporarily it might pay to put a disconnect on the positive cable. That kind of draw through a short could result in enough heat to start a fire.

 

I had a simular problem with my old style brake assembly. I pulled mine out because I am not planning on towing anything with this truck. I would try an disconect that sucker and see if it makes a differance.

good luck

jd

 

I replaced the ignition switch. I disconnect the cable when not in use. It may be that the draw is slower, I never really timed it. The battery looks cheap, AutoZone brand Duralast. I know that 5 or 6 start ups and a little driving will drain it beyond starting power.

 

Thanks JD

Im gonna look into that.

Dan

 

Definitly there should be no spark when you connect your battery. Although I don't think charging is your issue as much as discharging I wanted to say that a properly operating charging system should put out at least 13 volts if not a little more. That will depend on the condition and state of charge of the battery as well as the loads being placed on the system. If you check this with a voltmeter its best to tun off all loads (accessories).

There is also a condition that can occur with alternators that causes a discharge condition. I have even seen them short out and go up in smoke. Possible fire hazzard..