1988 Chevy Truck Charging Problem

LWH

MEMBER
1988 CHEVROLET TRUCK
V8
2WD
AUTOMATIC
200,000 MILES

1988 Chevrolet 1500 Series 1/2 Ton Pick-up 2WD - Battery not getting proper charge from the alternator. The alternator is putting out 14V, but when you test the charging system, it only reads 11V. When you unhook the positive battery cable while the truck is running, sometimes the truck will run, sometimes it will cut off. If you check the voltage when you unhook the positive cable from the battery, it shows 14V.

I have:

tested and replaced alternators

replaced battery

changed starter

traced wires - doesn't seem to be a short

I am wondering if there might be a short in the steering column because the ignition switch has a lot of play in it and when you put on the turn signal, the amp meter fluctuates. This problem goes and comes and sometimes it does fine, while other times the truck idles like it is going to cut off.

Any ideas as to what I can also try

2 Replies

DR LOOT

MECHANIC
2,311 POSTS

Because you are telling me the Amp. Gauges fluctuating and that sometimes the battery gets 14V and other times only 11V tells me that you have a defective alternator with a bad regulator internally, remove the alternator and take it back and get a new one.

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Saturday, July 25th, 2009 AT 3:46 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,700 POSTS

Hi,

By chance, is this the same year make and model? Also, is the engine size the same? If they are, have you checked to make sure there is power to the alternator? If I recall, there is a fusible link between the starter motor and alternator.

Let me know. If this is a different type of vehicle, I need you to start a new thread. Basically, copy and paste your question to a new post. We do this so it helps others. I hope you understand.

Here is the link to start the new thread:

https://www.2carpros.com/questions/new

Let me know.

Take care,

Joe

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Tuesday, May 10th, 2022 AT 7:36 PM