Charging system error

[gekkolm]

Hey guys, first posting for me, hoping for a little insight.

I recently bought a 2000 Limited SOHC V6. Driving at highway speed the radio cut out, RPM meter died (went to 0) and the computer flashed "Check Charging System". Truck continued to run fine, RPM's were solid even though gauge was gone, and no other problems other than the warning. When I got home, shut it off, waited a few minutes and restarted, everything was fine until I gave it some gas and the RPM gauge dies and I get the warning.

Everything points to alternator issues, but it's the RPM gauge that puzzles me, any idea?

Thanks a lot.

 

[RJDriver]

Welcome to the forum! If you're still having problems..... did you indeed test the alternator? Or take it somewhere to be tested?

Sometimes simply cleaning the battery terminals and connectors can solve a charging issue.....that's my twoonies worth.

 

[gekkolm]

'Twas the alternator. Expensive little bugger, but pretty easy to replace.

 

[schmidlkofer]

been there done that. your truck was just running off the power from thebattery.

 

[BrooklynBay]

Did you buy a rebuilt or remanufactured alternator? Autozone sells remanufactured alternators with a lifetime warranty. They cost more than the regular ones. Did you get one with more amperage than the old one? Do you have a lot of power accessories?

 

[gekkolm]

Got same alt. as the last one, 130 amp, I believe, and brand new from Partsource up here in Canada. Only accesory I'm running now is an iPod hookup so nothing to worry about there.