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Is it Time for a New Alternator in Your Diesel Truck?

Bring your diesel truck to United Diesel Repair if it is having any of the problems listed below. These issues are signs that the alternator is malfunctioning and needs to be replaced. Portions of your diesel truck rely on the alternator to provide power. When the alternator goes bad, you will notice that certain things slow down or start to malfunction. Let’s talk more about this below.

Accessory Malfunction

For example, your power accessories may start to malfunction if the alternator is not providing them with the power that they need. Your windows and seats may slow down to a stop, the radio may refuse to turn on, and the USB charging ports may no longer charge your devices.

Burning Electricity

The above is a sign that the alternator is not producing enough electricity; burning electricity is a sign that the alternator is producing too much electricity. This can happen if the alternator malfunctions and gets overly ambitious. Unfortunately, the excess electricity will overload your diesel truck’s electrical system and cause burning electricity odors.

Dead Battery

The alternator also provides a constant charge to the battery so it doesn’t die. Consequently, you will end up with a dead battery if the alternator isn’t charging it anymore. You may notice that your battery does not retain a charge after you jump-start it.

Growling Noises

If you hear a growling noise coming from your diesel truck’s engine, the alternator may be making the sound. This usually indicates that the inside of the alternator is wearing out. Replacing the worn alternator will stop the noise and restore your diesel truck’s electrical production.

Light Problems

You might also experience light problems with a faulty alternator. In this case, driving at night may turn hazardous because the headlights are so dim that you can’t see. If the alternator is being over-exuberant in its electrical production, your lights may be strangely bright. A sign of an unsteady electrical source is flickering diesel truck lights, including the interior lights.

Warning Light

Finally, your diesel truck may tell you that the alternator is going bad by turning on a battery or ALT light on the dashboard. The GEN light also covers the alternator. The dashboard warning will remain illuminated until you replace the diesel truck’s alternator.

We can do that here at United Diesel Repair in Flowery Branch, GA, so give us a call today. We’d be happy to test your diesel truck’s alternator and replace it if it can no longer produce electricity.

Photo by sergeyryzhov from getty images via Canva Pro
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