87' Dakota Charging Probs

Hey everyone. I have a 1987 Dakota and I seem to be having some charging problems. I just replaced the starter, don't know if that could be involved at all. Anyways, sometimes she starts up just fine, sometimes I have to give 'er a boost. When I'm driving, at times the charge indicator will tell me its fine, other times its really low. I think it might be my alternator, but I was wondering if there is anything else it could be. Thanks!

Make sure the connections at the battery are clean and tight.
did you change the starter because of this?

About 85% of the time, it's the battery. They may say 7-yr or 8-yr, but really they only last ~4 years. Have the parts store do a load test on it. Doubt it was the starter, too.

As mentioned in the previous post, clean cable connections and grounds are important too. Also, check the cables for corrosion damage. Greenish-white bloom around the ends, blistered cable insulation, and brittle wires mean corroded cables. Replace them after neutralizing and rinsing with a baking soda-water mix.

Next, make sure no lights are being left on or other added on equipment that are draining the battery.

If all that fails, turn to the alternator. Again, have the parts store do a load/output check on it.

Good luck!

Make sure the connections at the battery are clean and tight.
did you change the starter because of this?


No, my starter was dying. I think it may be the battery, once I got some opinions, because I had to crank the starter over so much to get it to run before I changed it. I just have to get some money to buy a new one, and that will hopefully solve the issue. If not, I may be back!

Hard starting usually means either poor fuel supply or poor spark, causing the starter to work extra hard. Check fuel filter, carbs for gum and deposits, sticking butterfly, and plugs rotor and cap for wear or cracks.