Battery Light

[bassnailer]

So, I left the lights on for a couple of hours the other night. But it started up just fine and the lights were still glowing strong when I got back to the van. But when I got home I noticed that the battery light on the left side of the dash was starting to come on. The light would turn back off when I increased the rpm's and back on when at idle. The A/T Temp light seems to be working in concert with the battery light. What could be the problem, and how do I check it. I can figure that it's the battery, but I don't know how to check it for malfunction. Could it also be the alternator? Tips?

[Firesong]

This sounds an awful lot like an alternator on the way out. It could be a bit yet but other lights may start to glow as well.

[Klecko]

Mine did that after a long drive from Montreal the other night. Nothing today. Just picked up my Delica on the same trip. Not sure how old the 2 batteries are so that might have been good to ask...... keep us posted.....

[thedjjack]

Alternator is starting to go....

[naterade]

This is exactly what happened to me when my alternator went.

Get it replaced or rebuilt before you are stranded somewhere


You can also get your battery load tested, to be sure - most good battery shops will test for free. (When I say 'good' I do not mean Canadian Tire or Walmart)

[FalcoColumbarius]

Before you replace your whole electrical system ~ when was the last time you cleaned your terminals and cable ends at the batteries? With the change of weather we've had lately ~ it's a classic scenario for condensation barriers to build up.

Falco.