Mystery on my 89 ranger v-6. Been running really well then we hit below zero temps. A little slow to start, but starts and runs Turn signals stopped working and then I noticed alternator/amp gauge only about 8 volts….great I am thinking maybe belt broken or something electrical Truck sat 6 hours and it warmed up to maybe 15 today.. then started and amp shows 14 Vic and turn signals okay. Obviously temp related but has me a bit concerned. I live in Wyoming and expect more cold temps Any ideas to check?

andy

 

How old is the battery? May be time to replace. Once they start fading, the cold really zaps them and it's a sign. I'd check all the connections at the battery, starter, solenoid and alternator for tightness and corrosion as well..

 

Engine shutoff: Good Battery = 12.3v or higher, Bad Battery = 12.2v or lower
Engine running: Good Battery & Alternator = 13.5v ~ 14.5v
Don't trust BatteryGauge in InstrumentCluster; use a MultiMeter on Battery.
Make sure Battery+Alternator+MainFuse Terminals are Clean+Tight wOut Corrosion\Fuzz.
Considering deadly cold Wyoming weather; inspect & winter prep your vehicle each fall.

 

Thanks on input. Battery not so old but battery negative cable a bit corroded or frayed. As insulation coming off. I will replace and check connections, cleaning with bake soda.

andy