2002 windstar - charging problem

[dthorne99]

the battery light came on - I replaced the alternator - the light stayed on - I checked the voltage and at first, the voltage was down but when I reved it over 2k rpm.... she charges.... if I let her idle I loose all power options but rev it up and the power comes back.

I went back to where I bought the alternator - replaced it with 2 more and the same thing happens....

does anyone have any idea what might be wrong here??

[Rotorman]

Originally Posted by dthorne99

the battery light came on - I replaced the alternator - the light stayed on - I checked the voltage and at first, the voltage was down but when I reved it over 2k rpm.... she charges.... if I let her idle I loose all power options but rev it up and the power comes back.

I went back to where I bought the alternator - replaced it with 2 more and the same thing happens....

does anyone have any idea what might be wrong here??

hello dthorne99, Your winnie should be charginging in the range of 14-14.50 volts at idle. Also check your serpintine belt and tensioner for loosesness and squeling when you turn the wheel. At this point take a clean rag and wipe the belt clean as well as the pullies.

[CnlK]

Last fall I installed 4 different remanufactured alternators from two suppliers before I got a good one. Also, is the pulley diameter the same size as the original? If not the alternator may be turning at different rpm or belt may have to much slack. Is tensioner pulley providing belt with enough tension? Did you have battery load tested? Otherwise check all battery and alternator connections for corrosion and tightness.

[12Ounce]

I strongly suspect a bad connection somewhere around the battery-to-ground-to-altenator "loop". I would suggest you loosen, clean, lubricate, and retighten all connections.

Years ago, I had an manufacturer's original bolt securing the starter to the engine/tranny run me a bit crazy ... the bolt also secured the major ground wire to the engine ... the anti sieze material used on bolt prevented a good ground connection even though the bolt was secure, not loose at all.

After making sure the "Loop" is in good condition, if you still have the problem even though you're getting the voltages suggested above ... I would take a look at all the "system power" relays. On my '99 model there are about 5 of them. Switched System Power (SSP) relays 1 - 4, PCM power relay, ... refer to your glove box manual to locate them. Your model may not have the "SSP" relays.

Also your battery may be flaky ....

[tripletdaddy]

If the alt isn't turning fast enough, you will need a SMALLER diameter pulley on it. Did it seem unusually hard to put the belt on with the new alt like the belt was too short by just a hair?