Well I've read several existing posts on the problem I'm having but I'm still not certain it's the alternator. A few days ago I started my 4runner (96 2wd v6) and the headlights dimmed and the battery and ABS lights came on. Battery light kept going off and on and finally went off but the ABS light stayed on. This has happened randomly several times. After reading on Yotatech that it could be the alternator I tested it with my mulitmeter and it read 14.4 (this reading was taken when all was well and no lights on). I went ahead and took it to Autozone and they tested the alternator and said it was fine. Battery was fine too. Lights came on again yesterday and while they were on I tested with mulitmeter again and reading was 13.3. So...is my alternator fried? I don't want to replace it and then the problem be something else. Any advice is appreciated.

 

It sounds like your alternator is working intermittently or is on the way out. I am curious how autozone tested it for you (obviously while still in the truck), did they just bring out a machine an hook it up to the battery with the engine running? You might want to take the battery in seperately and get it load tested. If it checks out ok then I am 99% sure it is the alternator. At that point I would take out the alternator and bring it to an autoelectric shop (where they rebuild starters and alternators) and have them test it for you. If it still checks out I'd have them do a rebuild anyway (it is usually cheaper than buying a new one anyway and just as good). I have seen cases where one time you test the alternator it is charging well then you take it out on a test drive and when you get back suddenly it isn't charging anymore. It is often hard to isolate one or the other and check only that part because the charging system all works together.

 

MTL_4runner--yes Autozone guy came outside and tested the battery first while engine was off. Battery tested good. Then started engine and kept at 2500rpm while he tested alternator. He then said alternator was good and that the battery may be going out and to clean the terminals. IMO the terminals look fine. The battery is probably 1yr 1/2 old and I covered the terminals with that gel stuff to keep the corrosion off. To me the terminals look fine...

 

Any more ideas anyone? I'm going to buy a new alternator tomorrow so please post if you have any suggestions. thanks

 

is a rebuild out of the question? It usually is cheaper? If nothing else contact sleepy hollow rebuilders. They are simply amazing, they have been rebuilding distributors, and starters, and alternators for mercedes that you cant get parts for any more for us for years. They do great work, and thier prices are pretty good.

 

cost more these days to get a rebuild kit vs just buying a lifetime warr reman. just went through it a few months ago

 

I've heard rebuilds don't last near as long as new (obviously). Do you have a website for sleepy hollow rebuilders? Did a quick search on net but want to make sure I get to the right page. Dealer wants $270 after core charge.

 

Sleepy Hollow Rebuilders
4285 Franklin Goldmine Rd
Cumming, GA 30040-4369
(770) 887-2649
These are the guys I was talking about.
I'll see if I can find a website or osmething for ya.

 

I called them to get a qoute on doing the work. (exc. shipping) they are supposed to call me back in the AM.

 

Thanks Rocko Taco!! I'll check back in the morning. Do they sell rebuilt ones or only rebuild what you give them? I'm not sure how long my truck can be down if I have to send them mine. Thanks for all the help. Let me know what you find out.

 

i was saying when mine went out, it would have cost me more to rebuild it than to buy a rebuild. plus its a lifetime so i have no fear of H2O now!

 

LOL. Atta boy Shaun!