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1998 gmc jimmy hard to start


icesparta
11-11-2007, 09:59 AM
My jimmy recently just started acting up. When i go out to start the vehicle it will not turn over, but after a couple attempts it will start. The voltage gauge goes over 14 and then evens to 14. While driving it acts fine until i stop at a stop light then it will go down to about seven on the voltage gauge. I have replaced the battery, the cables, the alternator.... what else would cause this... please help

old_master
11-11-2007, 01:31 PM
When the ignition key is turned to the RUN position, without starting the engine, does the red battery icon in the instrument cluster illuminate? When the engine is running, does the icon turn off?

icesparta
11-11-2007, 03:15 PM
they light does come on, and goes off once the alternator charges the system after the vehicle has started

old_master
11-11-2007, 03:46 PM
The indicator system is working correctly, which also means the circuits to the alternator are good. An alternator can produce voltage without producing sufficient amperage. When the amperage output is low, voltage will also be low. Low amperage output will not charge the battery sufficiently, and cause the starter to operate slowly. A shorted cell in the battery can cause the alternator output amperage and voltage to be low causing the starter to operate slowly also. The battery, alternator and voltage regulator all work together as a system, each is dependent on the others for the system to work correctly. To check alternator voltage and amperage output, the battery needs to be good, and fully charged. Have the parts store check the alternator and battery, you'll probably find the problem.

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