Alternator is not charging the battery?

1997 DODGE RAM
153,000 MILES • 5.2L • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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TOM5406!1242
It is not charging the battery and if I keep the vehicle running too long it tries to burn up the alternator. I’ve replaced the battery, battery terminals alternator and the 120 fuse in the fuse box I’m stuck.
Nov 10, 2024 at 5:22 PM
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STRAILER
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,520 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
I would check the main system ground from the engine to the battery and from the battery to the chassis. Also, when the alternator is charging what is the voltage?

This guide can help:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-alternator

Here are the charging system wiring diagrams so you can see how the system works and the grounds to check.

This guide can help you check the grounds:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-test-light-circuit-tester

Check out the images (below). Please let us know what happens.


Nov 10, 2024 at 6:11 PM
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