I just replaced the batt and I took the alternator to auto zone and got them to test it for me, it was good. but still no charge. so now I think the wiring was messed up when I got the truck. what wires do I need running from the alternator and where do they go. any other ideas as to what may be going on? thanks for reading..

 

bad grounds, corroded wires, bad battery, maybe something is draining your battery

 

is this a gauge in your truck saying its not charging? or have you checked the charging system with a meter while the truck is running?

 

I know better than to trust a 29 year old dash light no its the fact that the truck wont start without a jump and i took the alternator off and got it tested and its good. but as far as testing it while its on the truck and running I havent done that because I dont have a meter to test it. what kind of meter do I need?

 

although the alternator passed the bench test, i would check at the battery with a multimeter. should be just over 14v with the system loaded or unloaded. other issues could also be the regulator or relay. or on a positive note, could be something as simple as a loose belt? wish i could help more but im not a mechanic, but i did stay at a holiday inn express last night

 

Have you checked the voltage regulator ?

 

so now it looks like I have a starting problem. I put on a new starter, tried another battery traced down all the grounds and when I turn the key all I get is a few clicks from the starter and clicks from under the dash. I tried running a hot wire to the starter and it made a winding and clicking and it sounded better but it still wouldnt turn over. what is going on with my truck?

 

How does one trace the grounds?? Just what does that tell you about the condition. This grounds were poor from new.

Every Toyota I come across I make new grounds running one to the steel of the engine block the other to the body cures many starting and charging issues

The wire coming off the Alternator B terminal going to the fuse block also has a habit of dieing from old age getting so brittle it no longer conducts electrons

When you replaced the starter maybe you have a poor connection on the wire to the solenoid and the coil does not energize .