Alternator Dead?
Thread Starter
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Elder User
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 687
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From: Medford, OR
Alternator Dead?
Tonight as I was driving I noticed that my amp light on the dash was on. As I drove the voltage needle was slowly dropping. After about 5 minutes my headlights turned off and my speedometer stopped working. At the next light the Bronco died. It will start with a jump but only run for a short time once the jumper cables are disconnected. Does this sound like the alternator dying or would the battery cause something like this? Is Autozone or something similar a good palce to get an alternator or would I be better off getting a hig output one online or something? I would like to get the truck running again ASAP as it is parked in a parking lot across town at the moment. Thanks.
Posting Guru
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 2,205
Likes: 1
From: Vancouver WA
Alternator Dead?
Sure sounds like the alternator. Go take it off (should only take a couple minutes) and take it to Autozone or, better yet, NAPA if there is one close. They will check them for free. Unless you are running lots of current drawing accessories (extra lights, stereo amplifiers, winch, etc...) a stock type replacement should be fine.
Actually, before you take the alternator out, make sure all of the battery cable connections are clean and tight. It's surprising what a little corrosion can do.
Actually, before you take the alternator out, make sure all of the battery cable connections are clean and tight. It's surprising what a little corrosion can do.
Thread Starter
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Elder User
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 687
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From: Medford, OR
Alternator Dead?
Well I replaced the alternator with a new 95 amp today. Everything seems to be working but I still have some fluctuation in the voltage needle. WHen I am driving it sits at the "M" in Normal, and when I stop it slowly drops to the "R" in normal. Is this...normal?
New User
Joined: Jan 2008
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Likes: 24
Alternator Dead?
This gauge drops when you apply the brake & the engine is idling down ... right?
That's normal.
Go to deserted road & Do a test slow down with the E-brake instead.
I'd say the gauge will stay up or center when you do this.
That's normal.
Go to deserted road & Do a test slow down with the E-brake instead.
I'd say the gauge will stay up or center when you do this.
