99 2.5L bad alternator?

[Rainmaker]

I pulled off to get gas last night about 150 miles into a 200 mile drive and had very sudden electrical loss. Battery light came on, radio turned off, lights dimmed. I was able to get to the station and after sitting a few minutes I could start again but severely under powered and only lasts about 5 minutes or so. The only symptom I noticed was about 75 miles into this drive the lights seemed to brighten up a bit. I assumed my eyes were playing tricks.

Sounds like an alternator but I'm worried about a larger electrical problem. Anybody have any thoughts?

Seriously looking forward to working on this thing outside in 11°F...

 

[Uncle Gump]

Time to get out the voltmeter... engine idling battery voltage should be right around 14 volts if the alternator is working.

 

[Rainmaker]

I can do that. If voltage measures fine what might be your next thing to check?

Thanks!

 

[tomw]

Definitely check that the battery post terminals are tight and corrosion free. A loose terminal can cause weird failures as the battery comes and goes from the charging/power system. Grab and see if you can twist, and if so, tighten.
tom