1996 Dodge Ram Van Alternator

1996 DODGE VAN
164,000 MILES • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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KMKAP81
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1996 dodge ram van alternator/generator. Had alternator tested. Okay. Truck will not start without jump. Runs rough, then dies if lights, fan motor or other electricle is used. Dash light says generator. Truck has been sitting for about a month.
Jan 10, 2011 at 11:17 PM
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SATURNTECH9
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Do you have a multimeter to do some testing?
Jan 10, 2011 at 11:25 PM
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KMKAP81
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Yes, I do. Were do I start.
Thanks.
Jan 11, 2011 at 3:47 PM
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SATURNTECH9
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I need to know which engine you have so i can get the correct wire diagram.
Jan 11, 2011 at 6:50 PM
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BMWTECHWAQAS
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Def check your battery 1st, if battery hasnt been replaced or battery is more then 4 years old I would def make sure battery in good health. with engine running check the voltage on your battery see if your alternator is putting out between 13.8 to 14 volts.
Jan 11, 2011 at 7:04 PM
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KMKAP81
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Engine is a 318.
Battery checked out okay.
Started motor today and the gen light no longer lit!!?? What's up with that? Will try again in the morning.
Jan 12, 2011 at 8:42 PM
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SATURNTECH9
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What is your charging voltage at idle at the battery post's?
Jan 12, 2011 at 8:52 PM
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KMKAP81
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Battery checked out at 12.2 v if I read it right.
Jan 13, 2011 at 8:04 PM
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SATURNTECH9
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So with it idling and checking the voltage at the battery it's 12.2 volt's?If so that's too low is the battery light on now?
Jan 14, 2011 at 3:13 AM
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KMKAP81
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No battery light on. It registers just in the 'good' range as apposed to the 'replace' range.
Started it again this a.m. and the gen light is not on. Maybe there was a loose connection (I did tighten the battery terminals). Will also put a charge on the battery (it has been coooold).
Thanks for all the help. Will call on you again if need be.
Jan 14, 2011 at 5:53 PM
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SATURNTECH9
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Alright keep me posted could have just been a loose connection.
Jan 15, 2011 at 7:22 PM
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