View single post by Mark Rosenbaum
 Posted: 05-23-2006 10:51 pm
PM Quote Reply Full Topic
Mark Rosenbaum



Joined: 03-12-2005
Location: Kingman, Arizona USA
Posts: 532
Status: 
Offline
 First, check the wires to the alternator, the main battery junction on the heavy battery positive cable, and the battery connections themselves.  Also check the engine ground strap to make sure it's still there and still tight.  Sometimes you get poor contact or broken wires due to age and vibration.

From the symptoms you describe, it doesn't sound much like a problem with the battery itself, but if you have a hydrometer, you can check the specific gravity of the acid in each battery cell and determine if there's a battery fault of some sort.

Third, check the alternator.  The easiest way to troubleshoot one is to take it to an auto parts store in your area that tests alternators for free.  Also, make sure the fan belt actually spins the alternator pulley without slippage.

Last edited on 05-23-2006 10:52 pm by Mark Rosenbaum