Battery Problems

[kelch.28]

I Have a 98 ranger, driving today my Indicator light was on and the ammeter was very low, then others lights started coming on (check gauge, seat belt,etc.) finally the truck would not go anywhere above 25 mph. I got a new battery threw it in, and now the light is still on im pretty sure its the indicator light(looks like a battery). Does anyone have a clue if this sounds like an alyernator, if so are they fairly simple to change. Thank you.

 

[Mark_88]

Easy enough to change...loosen the belt tensioner (I assume you have a serpentine belt on a 98) and undo the bolt(s) that hold the alternator in place...

But you might want to get it tested before just throwing another new part into the mix...it may be a voltage regulator that is causing the problem...some alternators have the regulator attached to them while others may not (not sure about 98s)...in some cases you can just replace the regulator...

 

[kelch.28]

where can I get my alternator tested?

 

[np24]

autozone will do it for free
out of the truck is better
but they can test it in the truck

 

[97ranger xlt]

with the truck idling put a voltmeter across the battery. should read at least 13.8v. if not the alternator is probably bad.
i got a used alt. at a pick n pull for $25.-

it's only 3 bolts so easy to change out.

 

[Mark_88]

Yeah, I got mine for about $25 too...works as good as a new one...and for that price you can pick up a spare if you've got room to store it...

 

[97ranger xlt]

Yeah, I got mine for about $25 too...works as good as a new one...and for that price you can pick up a spare if you've got room to store it...

yep, it was simple to change out... 10 minutes max...