I have a 1997 Ford Ranger and I'm not sure if the alternator is charging the battery.

Asked by Frogman64 May 17, 2013 at 08:02 PM about the 1997 Ford Ranger XLT Standard Cab LB

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

I disconnect the positive terminal after I start it and it idles fine, but when I go to rev it up, the truck dies. Any advice?

3 Answers

48,915

Get a volt meter and check what the voltage is at the battery

4 people found this helpful.
815

It should be fairly easy to remove both battery and alternator if you have an autozone, oreilys, or advance type store nearby. They should also have a device that'll attach to your battery that'll be more helpful before taking those out to have them checked, and they usually check items for free. Removing the positive cable could short out if disconnected while running. Just don't forget to unhook battery if/when you remove the alternator or starter...

Thanks for the advice guys. Turns out my alternator was failing. Went to a Pull A Part and got one. Truck runs like a champ now.

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