Battery Indicator is on, guage at one quarter

[deadman2312]

last night my lights dimmed in my 1996 GMC Jimmy 4.3L 2wd.

my battery indicator is also on, the guage usually sits about halfway at normal running, but now sits at about 25%.

Question being.................

Is it my battery?

Is it my alternator?

The vehicle sat overnight in the cold snowy weather and still started like a champ, but the interior lights are still dim, and the guage is still riding low......

HELP!!??

[blazee]

Check the belt.

Check the connections on the battery and alternator.

If everything is okay have the alternator tested.

Do not drive it. If it isn't charging...when the battery goes dead you will be stranded.

If you need to replace the alternator...make sure the battery is completely charged when you install the new one or you will shorten the life of it.

[BlazerLT]

If the belt is fine, you need a new alternator.

[deadman2312]

Originally Posted by BlazerLT

If the belt is fine, you need a new alternator.

belt was fine had the alternator tested, was only putting out 10 volts, compared to a normal 15?

after 3 bolts and removing the serpentine, i replaced the alternator myself for 115$ including the deposit. runs like a champ. thanks for the speedy and informative replies, i will return in the future if i have any further issues. Good site