Started was installed incorrectly causing alternator and battery issues?

JACLYN REICHEL

MEMBER
2006 DODGE MAGNUM
3.5L
6 CYL
AUTOMATIC
16,000 MILES

I had to change the starter, but it wasn't done correctly and needed to be redone then car overheated several times. The thermostat changed and then the alternator needed changed twice. Now the battery light came on while I was driving then it wouldn't go over 5 miles per hour then it shut off. This has been happening a lot since the starter wasn't done right and it almost caught on fire. I've been having trouble with the battery and alternator ever since. Please help.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,872 POSTS

Hi,

What was done incorrectly when the starter was installed? The idea that the alternator was affected could have been due to a fusible link that goes from the starter to the alternator. But I think that would have caused a problem from the start.

Do me a favor. I need you to test the alternator output.

Here is a link that explains how it's done:

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

Here is the thing. I'm not sure what all has happened or changed, but the voltage regulator is integral to the powertrain control module. If there was a power surge to the PCM, it may have caused damage.

I attached the charging system wiring schematic below and circled the PCM/Generator field control. That is the portion in the PCM that controls the voltage.

Try the test above and let me know what you find.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.

Image (Click to make bigger)