Intermitent charging system

1997 3.2 2WD 299,000 miles original alternator

3 times in the last month when I start up first thing in the morning dash warning lights are lit up and the electrical system is not charging. AC doesn't work and windows operate very slowly. A simple rev of the engine has resolved the problem. However, the belt is very tight (and I mean very) and there is no indication of it slipping.

This morning, a rev didn't solve the problem. I only work a few miles from home and my mechanic is also very close so I just figured to head that direction. About 1/4 mile later charging kicked in and everything worked just fine.

I hate Intermittent electrical problems :disappoin Where to start.

I would replace the alt ... I believe there is a voltage regulator within the alt that only charges the battery once it gets to a certain level (it doesn't need to charge the battery all the time).

Also, if you battery is nearing 5yrs it would probably be worth swapping that out too ...

Ditto on the alternator. The brushes are worn out and brush springs are weak.