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Lewis's avatar
Lewis
Explorer
Sep 04, 2017

DP Charging Problem

Motor Home 2001 Newmar / Freightliner DP
After running for 20-30 minuter noticed charging dash meter not in normal position, after 45 minutes low battery light on. When I let off on throttle battery indicator drifts back toward normal but when the turbo comes on with increase throttle battery indicator comes down and low battery comes back on. The engine batteries seem to charge ok after stopped with an external charger. Seems like I have an alternator problem. Any additional checks would be appreciated.

Lewis

13 Replies

  • Wolf's on top of things as usual. I'd also check alternator belt, if it's independent of other belts. It almost sounds as if it's slipping at higher RPMs. Just a suggestion.
    Scott
  • I would start by cleaning and tightening connections at alternator and battery isolator.

    THEN, You really need to troubleshoot the charging "system".

    Pay particular attention to the "sense" wire (which you will have if you have a diode-based battery isolator). It is a small gauge wire and a little corrosion, loose connection, etc really does strange things to voltage.

    I would not drive until this is fixed or a work-around is wired (if you have to move, let us know and we can talk you through some pretty easy work-arounds). You can damage engine and transmission computers with low voltage and/or they can leave you on the side of the road (timing theirs, not yours)!
  • Ivylog's avatar
    Ivylog
    Explorer III
    Check the engine batteries with a voltmeter before cranking and then after...you should get a rise in voltage to above 14 if the alternator is charging.