Is It the Battery or Alternator??

ASSISTANCE Stock Engine-Bay Components
1

After doing a few searches, I have come to the conclusion that it is probably my alternator, but would appreciate it if someone has anything else to offer…

My Reasoning…
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  1. When I turn the key, it doesn’t even try to start.

  2. When the key is at the accessory position, everything works fine (radio, lights, power windows) with no sign of a loss of power.

  3. I have replaced the battery about 1 year ago (its supposedly a heavy duty Interstate)

  4. Replaced the battery terminals, no corrosion on the terminals at all, so the connection is good.

  5. I had a problem like this before, and my mechanic fixed the terminals/brushes (something like that) on the alternator about 2 years ago.
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    I’m thinking that because the alternator isn’t in its prime anymore, its about time for it to have a retirement.

I tested the battery and the alternator with a voltmeter, but aren’t 100% sure on the numbers. I heard that with the car on, the voltmeter should read around 14.5 and with the car off, it should read around 13.5.

The readings I got were:
With Car On:13.85 - 14.05
With Car Off:12.30

Im assuming the alternator is working to its potential, and thats why the reading is low while the car is on, and the reason the battery reading is low is because it isn’t being charged properly by the alternator.

I know its long, but I just want to be sure before I install a new/rebuilt alternator.

Thanks in advance for your help, guys,

Nav

2

when u turn the key does it even crank? do u even hear a click? also u said that your acess lights comes on when th ekey is in, when u try to turn it (start it up) does the lights start to dim down a lot and maybe even be completely off?

3

did u check to see if it was ur alternator belt? It might of snapped

4

Sounds like your starter.

Your car won’t start, correct?
When you turn the key (to start the car) the car doesn’t try to start, but your battery is charged fully??

Starter.

Hopefully someone will back me up hear so you don’t rebuild your alternator for no reason.

IF YOUR CAR STARTS:
then ignore this post

5

Originally posted by LODOSS
when u turn the key does it even crank? do u even hear a click? also u said that your acess lights comes on when th ekey is in, when u try to turn it (start it up) does the lights start to dim down a lot and maybe even be completely off?

  1. It doesn’t crank when I turn the key, doesnt click either.

  2. The lights don’t dim when I turn the key.

Edit: I tried to start the car this morning, and it started fine (like normal)

Now, I seem to be under the impression that it is the starter.

6

yes i would think it’s the starter =P

7

Originally posted by LODOSS
yes i would think it’s the starter =P

Thanks for your assistance bud, I went out and bought the starter just now, and I’m going to install it tommorrow morning.

Thanks Again,

Nav