[Peter V]

Hi All,
I have a 2002 ZD3.0 auto Patrol and when I first start up in the morning several dash light stay on (ie battery, handbrake sub tank and a few more). After driving for about 5 mins they all go out and everything appears normal. I put a multimeter on the battery terminals on start up and it read 11.7 volts. After the lights went out it measured 13.9 volts. The battery showed evidence of batttery fluid weeping out thru the cell caps. Additionally I recently had to replace 2 brake light bulbs and one spot light bulb at the 150k service. It sounds like alternator probs; is this right?

 

[dronus4x4]

Check the electrolyte levels in each cell of the battery.
Check battery connections are clean and tight.
Take car to a place that does battery tests to check it.

If the alternator is eventually charging the battery, id doubt the alternator is faulty..

How old are the batteries? I recently replaced both of mine as they were getting a bit long in the tooth, and i didnt want any hassles while out 4 wheeling

 

[mystic]

The 13.9 volts is about right, but it should reach this or slightly higher as soon as the moter starts.
The other symptoms suggest that it's overcharging at some stage, but without a voltmeter connected permanently it's hard to know. I'd get an auto leccy to check it out asap. Cheers

 

[Peter V]

Thanks boys

 

[Yendor]

I am going to go against the grain and say your alternator is on its way out.

But I would check connections at the battery and the alternator to make sure they are clean and tight.

 

[JG84]

Did you find out what it was? I'm having the same issue. I had the alternator replaced about 18 months ago so I don't think it's that. Every now and then the airbag light will also come on and the voltage on the scanguage spike to 17-18volts. I've tried scanning it and clearing and faults but no faults come up. Tried cleaning and tightening battery terminals and earth's but no luck.

 

[Phdv61]

17 volts ? most probably at least one diode of the diode bridge rectifier in your alternator is dead. if you drive like this, it will also kill your battery.