So two weeks ago I had my 2006 f250 super duty in the shop to replace the alternator. They fixed it, got it back to me, and everything has been grand since. Yesterday I came out of the store I was at, and it won't turn over. So I jumped it with my other truck and it came on just fine. Drove I home fine, but my dash lights kept dimming as I drove. My shop is closed until Monday, so my question for you guys is, is it most likely just one of my batteries is bad after the previous alternator problem? Or could the alternator be shot again? I'm guessing it's just the battery, but I don't want to waste $200 on new batteries If they're just going to drain again if it's the alternator.

Thanks in advance from this novice.

 

Well first have them tested.
If they are still good see if the shop that put in the alternator tested it before they installed it. Either way if it is the alt it should be warrantied. Could be a bad ground or something too

 

If your dash lights were getting dimmer and dimmer with the truck running, then the alternator crapped out again. The biggest cause of this is the replacement of the alternator without either charging or replacing the battery or batteries. If the battery or batteries are 4 years old or older, replace them. A bad battery will look like it is undercharged to the alternator, and then the alternator will try to charge and charge and charge it until it charges itself to death. If the truck is a 2006, the batteries should have been replaced by about 2010 or 2011--If they were, they are due again as they are at least 5 years old again.






RON

 

If it's a 6.0 you need new batteries. Unless you want to be talking to this guy about a new FICM:
FICMRepair.com - FORD Powerstroke 6.0 FICM Repair, PHP Tuning and Truck Parts

Actually they're open from 1-6 CST today, so you should call them:
Ph: 515-897-4459

I spoke with Ed several times before buying my alternator. His insights on what it takes to destroy the FICM should convince you that if you're driving and your lights are dimming, it's only a matter of time before the computer module and maybe even injectors start failing. If it were any other engine I'd say "eh, new alt, new batteries, be done" but because of the known electrical issues with the 6.0 it's not beneficial to just swap parts, you need to grab a DVM and your battery charger, find a load tester, and really dig in on what your voltages are doing.

This is in your future:
FICM: $800 part, $325 repair
Injectors $220-260 after core times eight so up to $2,080

Unless you do this now:
Good Alternator for a 6.0: $300
Batteries: $250

I'd be picking the batteries and a better alternator over FICM and injectors.


This guy named TooManyToys. has put up several great posts about verifying that your alternator is working, battery charging, and wiring upgrades. If you can't find his posts easily, send him a message or start a new thread in the 6.0L engine forum:
6.0L Power Stroke Diesel - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums
Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums - View Profile: TooManyToys.

6.0 electrical threads:
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...att-light.html
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...-charging.html
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...l#post16060975
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...batteries.html

 

your repair manual has a procedure to test the alternator, its real easy to do all you need is a multimeter and somebody to help with keeping the engine at constant RPM.

 

Most parts stores like advance auto will check the batteries and alternator for free. They are plug and play types of tests that they can't really mess up.

 

True but you may not want to take a truck with electrical problems on the road, specially when it can cause major damage to other components. which can cost you Many $$$$$ to fix
Also when an individual buys a used vehicle, buying a repair manual is a must. just my opinion

 

Not just Used, New.


you never know when you could have a problem.. or out of town.. 50 miles from anywhere... or just on the weekend.. dealers are closed.


Car/Truck/motorcycle/lawn mower.... anything.


some information is way better then NONE...


you spend thousands for a truck.. spend 40 dollars more for a manual


my opinion.