Low voltage

Discussion in 'Trucks [ Eighteen Wheelers ]' started by Cagedmonkey, Jan 2, 2017.

  1. Cagedmonkey

    Cagedmonkey Bobtail Member

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    Oct 31, 2016
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    I'm in a a somewhat new freightliner cascadiia or however it's spelled! I just had the alternator replaced about a week ago because of the low voltage alarm kept going. They tested battery's, and said they were good that it was my alt. Now the low voltage alarm is coming on again and the display shows 11,1v. My question is how low can it go before I can go no more?
     
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  3. BoxCarKidd

    BoxCarKidd Road Train Member

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    10.2? at the low voltage disconnect.
     
  4. Cagedmonkey

    Cagedmonkey Bobtail Member

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    Oct 31, 2016
    Oklahoma
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    Not sure I know where the low voltage disconnect is it's now 11.0 I'm trying to not pay a tow bill lol but I've got about 100 miles to go before I'm close enough to a shopim reading the voltage of the display in the cab
     
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  5. uncleal13

    uncleal13 Road Train Member

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    I assume you mean the low voltage condition is occurring while the engine is running?
     
  6. Cagedmonkey

    Cagedmonkey Bobtail Member

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    Oklahoma
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    Yes
     
  7. uncleal13

    uncleal13 Road Train Member

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    A modern Diesel engine with piezo-electric injectors can draw up to 70 amps when running. I wouldn't count on it running for 100 miles.
    Could just be bad luck and got a bum alternator. There is an alternator sense fuse, but if that is gone the alternator would have been running over 14.6 volts but it would be worth checking out its only a five amp fuse.
     
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  8. Pedigreed Bulldog

    Pedigreed Bulldog Road Train Member

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    First, shut off and/or unplug all unnecessary items. Unfortunately at night, you'll need the headlights...but things such as hvac blower motors, fridge, stereo, interior lights, inverter, etc can be shut off to help get you as far as possible before shutdown. Of course if your cell phone is low, charge that...might need it.

    Next opportunity you have, get a digital multi-meter and a test light. Invaluable tools when trying to diagnose electrical issues.
     
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  9. BoxCarKidd

    BoxCarKidd Road Train Member

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    It is a electrical disconnect just like it sounds. When it opens you are done untel voltage is restored. I ran a couple old mechanical engines a long way sucked up behind another truck. No headlights, heater-A/C, radio, etc. Don't thank these new ones will do that. If you see a safe place to camp and can get a recharge go after the sun comes up.
     
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  10. uncleal13

    uncleal13 Road Train Member

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    The fuse is located under the plastic cover on engine side of firewall by steering column.
    IMG_0093.PNG
     
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  11. The Kraut

    The Kraut Medium Load Member

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    Could be a ground wiring problem. Check the wiring at the batteries and alternator something lose?
     
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