Charging system

[smaurno]

I've become a firm believer in testing first, and replacing second. If the engine is running and your gauge is low, I'd take the alternator and battery to a parts dealer for testing. Remember that the battery must be trickle charged for a few hours first. If both are Ok, check for proper grounding (I had this problem once on a Chrysler).

Also, I've never had great luck with rebuilt parts. They seem to either fail after several months or work marginally for a few years. I've started going for new parts when available. They're more expensive, but save me from having to crawl under the truck all the time.