I was driving yesterday in the rain from tropical strom Hannah and the battery light came on and then the ABS light. The wipers slowed and the car wasn't running right, I had to drive "gently". When I got home it wouldn't turn over, no juice. :shrug: I have just hit 70,000 miles and the battery and alternator are original. I assume that the alternator has failed. I will use a meter to test the volts at the battery while it is running with accessories on. I may need an alternator and a battery.
My question... can I test the battery with a voltmeter? I know I can use it to test the alternator. I plan to test it at the battery while running with accessories turned on to create a load. I did a search and it seems that anything under 12.7 volts is bad. If I replace the alternator, which is the best choice? I am leaning towards a new Motorcraft (not remanufactured). Are there better choices? If I have to replace the battery what do you folks suggest? Optima yellow top, red top or just a standard replacement Deka battery from NAPA?
Since my car is a daily driver this is an urgent problem. I need to fix it ASAP. Any comments or suggestions are greatly appreciated.
Thanks
:beer:
My question... can I test the battery with a voltmeter? I know I can use it to test the alternator. I plan to test it at the battery while running with accessories turned on to create a load. I did a search and it seems that anything under 12.7 volts is bad. If I replace the alternator, which is the best choice? I am leaning towards a new Motorcraft (not remanufactured). Are there better choices? If I have to replace the battery what do you folks suggest? Optima yellow top, red top or just a standard replacement Deka battery from NAPA?
Since my car is a daily driver this is an urgent problem. I need to fix it ASAP. Any comments or suggestions are greatly appreciated.
Thanks
:beer: