Alternator issues

[kph03281983]

Hey guys i have a 99 cherokee, i notice that my engine makes a sound and when i look at my gauges the volts are dropping on my gauge. But then it goes back up. It does this about every 2 min or so while in park or at an idle. What could it be?
Im thinking the alt is going bad???

[4.3LXJ]

Unless the rpms are dropping with it, then yes you might need a new one

[mudgeek]

Sounds like your brushes are going bad in the alternator. I would go ahead ans replace it.

[kph03281983]

The rpms drop with it...... what does that mean?

[4.3LXJ]

When an alternator is not turning fast enough, the voltage will drop. Is it idling properly?

[kph03281983]

It idles pretty smooth. Then a fan kicks on and i think that is when it drops the volts and the idle starts goin down. The volts drop on the gauge and then the idle drops, but then goes right back to normal for a min ir two.

[kph03281983]

Its real wet and foggy here right now, i think i might be getting moisture in the cap too, once in a great while it will putter then goes just fine. I traded my 98 blazer for this jeep, im not too but hurt bout it needing work, but its my dd, kinda need it at least road worthy

[gary63]

have you checked your belt it may slip when there is a load on like the fan or try turning your lights on then high beams and heater or a/c . the belt may be loose or glazed.

[kph03281983]

I will check that. It has been slippin little when it first start it. The engine compartment is really dirty, can i just spray it with car wash?

[4.3LXJ]

Yes, but don't spray the distributor. If you get it wet inside the cap, you won't leave until it it dry

[kph03281983]

Ok. It wont hurt the alternator or anything else?

[XJ Wheeler]

Check your battery too. When the fan comes on a big draw happens and if the battery isn't up to par it can't have that back up capacity, which strains the rest of the system. Somebody might be able to explain it better but basically.

[kph03281983]

I was wondering bout that. I just got the jeep like a week ago and its been crappy weather so havent really had a chance to inspect everything. I know right now i need:
Both front wheel hubs
maybe both front ujoints (it clanks when in 4 wheel drive when i turn)
shocks
good tune up

any ideas on cheap stuff til i get money to fix it right

[kph03281983]

It seems like my alt is freezing up or something. It squeels sometimes and my gauge drops down. Should i replace it with a new one or go with a higher amp one. Ive seen that some people put bigger ones in. Idk what exactly to do. Go have it tested at autozone?

[4.3LXJ]

Are yo sure it is that alternator freezing up, or could it be the AC pump coming on for a short period for things like defrost running?