Electrical problem

[jeffs]

I have a problem with my 94' ranger 3.0; when driving my battery light comes on and then goes off. When it does go on my voltmeter takes a nose dive. I cleaned the battery terminal and it's still doing it. Would this be a battery issue, altenator or something else?

 

[Big Jim M]

I have a problem with my 94' ranger 3.0; when driving my battery light comes on and then goes off. When it does go on my voltmeter takes a nose dive. I cleaned the battery terminal and it's still doing it. Would this be a battery issue, altenator or something else?

How old is the battery? I install new batteries every 36/40 months! By doing this my cables never get cruddy and I am never left afoot.

Big JIm

 

[forzda]

Check all the wiring from the battery to the alternator, fuse block , and starter . something could be broken or loose

 

[jeffs]

The battery is about 2 years old, terminals are clean. Most likely it's a loose wire somewhere. Finding it will be the problem. Could it be the altenator? If it is the light would always be ON correct?

 

[exbass94]

Check this connection on the alternator for looseness/corrosion:

A bad connection will cause the light to go on.

 

[Earl43P]

Sounds like the brushes in the Alternator voltage regulator are getting too short.

Higher rpm makes them float over the contacts and it quits putting out voltage.

Probably the single most common alternator failure mode.

Most AP stores will test your alternator for free.

Sounds like you need a new alternator but there is also a very slight possibility that your serpentine belt is stretched and the tensioner can't keep it tight enough, so it is slipping. Doubtful, but possible. You'd hear it squealing from that if you rev it sitting still.

 

[jeffs]

Checked and cleaned all the connections and also had the alternator tested (all good) and the light still comes on. It's not on all the time but it does come on. Any Ideas?????