Low Voltage After Start
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Senior User
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 134
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From: Perkins, OK
Low Voltage After Start
Hi, everyone - I am a new 7.3L PSD owner (1997 F350 CC 4WD), and have a question about alternator charge voltage after starting the engine. For a couple of minutes after starting, the voltage reads about 10 volts, and the headlights are noticeably dim. I understand from reading the posts here that the glow plugs will stay on for a couple of minutes after the "wait to start" light goes off. But should they pull the voltage down that low when the engine is running? I'm wondering whether my alternator is weak, although I haven't had trouble starting it, even when the temperature is below freezing, so the batteries are charging.
Thanks in advance for your replies - this is a great site, by the way!
Keith
Thanks in advance for your replies - this is a great site, by the way!
Keith
Senior User
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 368
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From: Las Vegas, Nevada
I have the exact same vehicle and mine does pretty much the same. After 2 minutes or so, the gauge returns to normal range. I have 2 new batteries, so I know that can't be the problem. I have always just assumed it was normal after a start.
Post Fiend
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 5,903
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From: MICHIGAN
This is normal. The glow plugs require a lot of power and the alternator can't keep up with it until after the cycle has been complete.
Welcome to the FTE web site. You will find a wealth of knowlege for your PSD.
JIM
Welcome to the FTE web site. You will find a wealth of knowlege for your PSD.
JIM
Thread Starter
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Senior User
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 134
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From: Perkins, OK
Low Voltage After Start
Thanks, gentlemen - I'll mark this off my "worry list". So far, I really like the truck. But I'm learning (especially thanks to this site) that it's a whole 'nother kind of rig compared to the gassers in my past.
Thanks,
Keith
Thanks,
Keith
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