Charging System

[kioticoachman]

Dear Friends .... Have an older 2000 Ford Coachman Catalina - 5.4 Triton Engine. Last year 2018 winterized it and began contemplating a Spring trip this year 2019. There is approx 90,000 miles on unit.

Started it up today and the Charging System light came on an stayed on? Would there be someone that can give this SC an idea or thoughts of what or where to look first? Would a code reader help to isolate the problem?

All suggestions & assistance would very much be appreciated. Thank you very much for taking the time to help. Best wishes to all for this New Year! PM USAF 62-66

[theoldwizard1]

The battery light means that the alternator is putting out less voltage than the battery, so the battery is DISCHARGING ! No need to check the belt, it is on a tensioner. Check the connections at the battery and the alternor to see if they are clean and tight.

After that, 99% chance it is the alternator.

[turbojimmy]

I would have the alternator checked out. Sounds like it quit working. Actually it's probably the voltage regulator in the alternator, but you have to replace the whole thing.

We had a similar issue with an '06 Mercury and installed an Autozone reman alternator. It's a few months old and getting mixed results from the Autozone tests. It has a warranty but we're going with a new (not reman) part this time.

[Teacher_s_Pet]

Auto Zone does the same "lifetime warranty" deal on some parts, if they are closer.

[time2roll]

I would assume it is the alternator. If you are inclined to do this yourself then take the alternator in and have it tested.

I did this while on the road a few summers ago with my F150. O'reilly set me up with a lifetime warranty, sold me a small tool set and charged my battery while I turned wrenches in the parking lot. Back on the road in 90 minutes.

On edit:
I asked for their best so it was a new alternator with a lifetime warranty.
I don't do rebuilds unless I know the actual person doing the rebuild.

[ScottG]

Check the belt for the alt for looseness but the diodes in alternators like to die while vehicles sit so next step would be removing it and getting it checked at someplace like Orielly's. Might get the battery checked too.

[Lwiddis]

How did you maintain your house battery(ies) charge after winterizing? Did you “cut off” the house battery(ies)? You list no location but an uncharged battery will freeze. That “kills” them. RIP