Dash info lights dims when gasing - 03 windstar

[boilerman]

2003 Windstar SE
Information lights are barely evident when driving day or night. I recently noticed that when I gas it the information lights on the dash dim big time - when in park. This must be why I can't see them when driving. Alternator problem?

[tomj76]

That's where I'd start. Pull it out and get it tested.

You can do a quick test at home before pulling it if you have a good volt meter. Check the voltage drop between the alternator output and the battery positive terminal. The resistance of the wire combined with the current flowing out of the alternator should show a slightly positive voltage (~300 mV) at the alternator terminal. (Postive of the voltmeter on the alternator, negative of the voltmeter on the battery positive terminal, measuring volts). The value should be positive. If negative or zero then the alternator is not providing electrical power.

[olopezm]

You can also have your entire charging system tested at most autoparts stores. This will let you know if the alternator, starter and battery are all in good condition.

Oscar.