On the way home last night, I noticed my battery light came on. Would go away if I exceeded 2000 RPM, but would return when coasting.

Came on again this morning - as well as my airbag, ABS and parking brake. Then all gauges died.

I'm 1000000000% positive my alternator is gone (especially since the I experienced the same symptoms in a previous truck).

While I'm replacing the alternator, I was thinking to swap out the serpentine belt and tensioner pulley as well. I'll be doing this myself.

Anyone have brand recommendations for these (or something else I may be forgetting)?

I don't mind spending a few extra $$$ on quality parts, as long as I don't pay dealership prices.

 

BTW,

Alternator - $289 including core exchange - 7L3Z10346ARM
Serpentine belt - $60 - 5L3Z8620CA
Tensioner pulley - $92 - 1L2Z6B209AA

Is what my dealership is quoting me

 

Tasca.com is one place, the tensioner you quoted above is $46.00 there. Have the system tested ie; Batt and Alt before you just go throwing $$$$ at it.

 

actually those arent horrible prices considering its a dealer. Rock autos cheapest Motorcraft remanufactured is $180+ a core charge that is a hassle to send back. I got my last alternator over at auto zone lifetime warranty $175 there. Autozones stuff is said by some to be inferior but the thing I like about the zone you bring in the part tell them your pkone number and they tell you if the part has a warranty you get you part and your out of there. Love there warranty coverage..

 

Thanks guys... I keep forgetting about Tasca. I looked at RockAuto and their prices weren't bad either - but my Excessive/Compulsive-ness is telling me to stick with Motorcraft.

So... other than the alternator, serpentine and tensioner pulley - any other items I should swap out?

Sam, I'm almost positive that the alternator is my issue. I had a buddy give me a jump after sitting/charging for 5-6 mins. It ran on it's own for around 5 mins and then died. I'm assuming whatever battery juice it got was drained in those 5 mins. Otherwise, the alternator would have taken over and charged the battery.

As I mentioned - these same events happend with a previous truck and was fixed w/ an alternator swap. Thanks for your suggestion to test first - I will probably do that for piece of mind.

 

Usually when the light starts coming on and going off the brushes are getting worn out and the split rings are worn in the alternator too. If your battery is aged you probably should consider it too, but having it tested can give some piece of mind.

 

O'Reilly reman alternators are decent, and they have a lifetime warranty.

 

Testing alt and battery good idea!!!! If replace alt also replace battery too. Like brick and mortor stores too. Easy to get to and no real waiting!!!!!!