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.
Is it a dead battery or a failing alternator? Here's a quick checklist to diagnose which it might be:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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Maria Santoyo
Would not recommend. Mark the mechanic is rude and very unprofessional . They do not like people asking questions on prices. I asked him to breakdown the price so i could pass along the information and was hung up on and told to not call back. Customers have the right to know what they are paying for. The dispatcher is very nice and professional.Would not recommend. Mark the mechanic is rude and very unprofessional . They do not like people asking questions on prices. I asked him to breakdown the price so i could pass along the information and was hung up on and told to not call …More
Jason Newton
Positive: ValueWe were in a pinch and needed a jumpstart at the flying j. Dustin came over and got us going really fast. Thank you Dustin!Positive: Value
Tony L
They plugged into my truck to diagnose it and came up with it needed a clutch fan solenoid. Part was changed out and was a waste of $300. I can’t be wasting time and money on the guessing games.I was NEVER informed about a possible fan clutch. He only told me the solenoid and I still have the paperwork that it was printed on. I would’ve changed the both of them cause I don’t have time to play around.They plugged into my truck to diagnose it and came up with it needed a clutch fan solenoid. Part was changed out and was a waste of $300. I can’t be wasting time and money on the guessing games. …More