Could be several things. All this assumes the stock generator setup.
The service manual has many pages on how to test and calibrate the system,
but here are some basics.
1. Clean and tighten both battery cables at both ends.
2. Disconnect the battery and charge it overnight with a normal battery
charger. Does it hold a charge? If it doesn't, replace the battery. This
is caused by an internal short in one of the battery cells.
3. Start the truck. Does the ammeter show that the system is charging?
If yes, drive the truck a while and see if it keeps up with the battery.
Remember that these systems only make 20 amps or so maximum in the best of
condition.
4. Is the generator belt loose and slipping?
5. If the system is not charging, ground the F terminal on the generator.
The generator should charge at full amps. If not, there is something wrong
with the generator, probably the brushes. If it does work, check the
voltage regulator. This is a lot more complicated than we can get into
here.
6. If the system is charging OK, with the engine and key off, disconnect
the negative terminal at the battery and put an ammeter between the
negative terminal and the cable. There should be way less than 10
milliamps through the meter. If there is more, look for something that is
leaking current to ground like a wiring problem.
Bruce Kettunen
57 3200
Mt. Iron, MN
Hi all!!
>
>I have a problem. My 58 3100 is not running. Here is what it is doing. The
>battery is not charging. It seems like something is draining the battery when
>it is not being drove. I can use jump cable to get the truck started however
>when i take them off the truck dies. It has not been driven in a while. Any
>and all help we be apriciated.
>
>Jay
>58 3100
>Nocona and Dallas Tx
>oletrucks is devoted to Chevy and GM trucks built between 1941 and 1959
oletrucks is devoted to Chevy and GM trucks built between 1941 and 1959
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