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djcwardog
05-14-2004, 12:01 PM
Folks,

I have read some similar posts, but not exactly this fact pattern:

I was on a trip, stopped for gas, started up, and then noticed my battery light was on - this had never happened before. The voltmeter was showing 12 volts (usually shows just over 14). I popped the hood and checked cables, etc. As I checked the alternator control harness that plugs in the alternator, I heard a click. I looked back at the dash and the voltmeter was now reading 14 volts, no battery light.

Of course, I was concerned, so I had the charging system checked at the local parts store. They said the battery was good and the alternator was also good. The problem has not repeated itself. The parts guy said that sometimes the Ford harnesses go bad - that often his customers buy a new pigtail when they buy a new alternator. I didn't buy anything that day.

Could it have been as simple as the wiring harness being a little loose where it hooks up to the alternator? Maybe some corrosion on the wires where they meet?

I do notice that on startup, the volts read about 12 (with no battery light coming on) and then after a second or two, the gauge pulls up to just over 14v, where it stays. I am running a new Autometer volt gauge that matches the also-new functioning oil pressure gauge!

Any thoughts?

Thanks!

RF Overlord
05-14-2004, 12:09 PM
As I checked the alternator control harness that plugs in the alternator, I heard a click. I looked back at the dash and the voltmeter was now reading 14 volts, no battery light.

wardog:

Sounds like you found it...it may have been as simple as that plug not being seated all the way...jiggle it about some more and see if you can get the problem to re-occur...if not, then you are officially a whiz-bang... :up:

Racerx88
05-14-2004, 02:05 PM
The voltage regulator has to "get up to speed" before the juice will start flowing. Sounds like you may have had a slightly slow idle on start-up, causing the voltage regulator to be a little slow in engaging. I doubt it's anything to worry about.

jaywish
05-14-2004, 02:20 PM
Agreed, you have probably solved the problem if the fault does not reoccur.

Also as far as new pigtails I believe the later 80's 5.0 liter alternator plugs were defective so most replacement alternators came with new ones and pig tails for a crimp to the existing harness. At least that is the story I have been given by two parts counters.