Alternator Question (update issue found)
Alternator Question (update issue found)
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4000 rounds a min
Joined: Apr 2010
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From: Albemarle NC
Thanks Greg, Just working on tracking down a slow cranking problem, Batteries are only about 7,8 months old, I'm thinking it time to pull the starter and have it bench tested. 180,000 and the original starter.
Lead Driver
Joined: Feb 2000
Posts: 5,374
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From: Palm Bay, Florida
I have heard that 14.4 is somehow optimum output from an alternator.
I too have something going on....2.5 year old Motorcraft batteries were dead this morning....charging them now then going to auto electric place to have them AND alternator checked.
I too have something going on....2.5 year old Motorcraft batteries were dead this morning....charging them now then going to auto electric place to have them AND alternator checked.
Post Fiend
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 6,096
Likes: 27
From: Mesa AZ
You can try some voltage drop testing and see is your cables are the problem. Are you familiar with that process?
Post Fiend
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 6,096
Likes: 27
From: Mesa AZ
Check out the videos on this site. Some of these might apply to your issue. I had to watch them a few times and then try some testing on my trucks. I was able to expose a few issues that were easy to correct. Now I feel my electrical systems are in better shape than before.
BBB Industries - How-to Video Center
BBB Industries - How-to Video Center
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Logistics Pro
Joined: Jun 2005
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From: AZ
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The ideal voltage for vehicles (of any size) to run the vehicle and charge the batteries is 14.4VDC. This voltage comes through the rectifier, since the alternator produces 3 phase AC voltage.
The alternator produces wattage based on demand, not as a constant. Low demand, less wattage is produced.
Batteries are what is used to get the vehicle started. Once the vehicle is started, the vehicle runs from the alternator. While running, the batteries are only used as part of the circuit and backfill for a short term under voltage situation. Otherwise, they are just charging in circuit.
Based on the 14.3VDC reading, check the batteries.
Thread Starter
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4000 rounds a min
Joined: Apr 2010
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From: Albemarle NC
Well got a Chance to look into the slow crank issue some more today and found the problem. it's time to do something about the cable ends. the cable end on the drivers side was not making good connection and was a little corroded under the connection. All is good now and thanks for all the advice.
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