Truck Alternator Repair Service in Tennessee & Mississippi

Overview of Heavy-Duty Truck Alternators

The starting system and the charging system make up the bulk of the electrical system. Important components are batteries, the starter, the alternator, interconnecting wiring, and electrical relays. If your alternator isn't functioning properly, it can actually effect your truck's overall efficiency and be fairly costly over long hauls, leading to increased fuel costs and possible downtime.

Do I need to replace my alternator?

Is it a dead battery or a failing alternator? Here's a quick checklist to diagnose which it might be:

Dying battery

If your alternator's not running properly, your truck will drain your battery reserves and stop powering lights, starting, or other issues. If you're going to replace a battery, check the alternator first to make sure it's delivering adequate current.

Lights are dim

Dim and/or flickering lights are one of the most commons signs of a failing alternator. It might be a sudden burst of light coming from your headlights or simply a dim or flickering dashboard. Either way, this is a telltale sign that your alternator needs service.

Electrical problems

Is your radio turning off out of nowhere? Or maybe your phone isn't charging? Or maybe your power seats feel like they're taking forever to adjust. This shows a lack of electrical power and could likely be the result of your alternator or batteries not functioning properly.

Stalling engine

If you're calling for emergency roadside service with this one, your in the right place. Your alternator might be the issue if your engine suddenly cuts power while hauling. It's likely the result of the vehicle no longer providing enough power to the ECM, which will shut down around 9.6v.

Service engine light

Don't be the guy who ignores the "Check Engine" or "ALT" light. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure when it comes to your truck. Note that your dashboard might show a battery icon even when the alternator is the issue.

Squealing, Growling or Grinding Sounds

The serpentine belt is going to stretch over time. As it stretches, it stops spinning the alternator pulley properly and it results in a lack of charge. You'll notice this when a squealing, growling, or grinding sound is coming from the engine.