Hi
I have a 1997 4.0l
tyhe other day while driving home the window washer stopped working. I also noticed the lights were getting dim and the volt meter was dropping.
when I got home the battery did not have enough charge to start the car.
I charged the battery and started the car still no window washer and the volts were still showing low.(not charging) but the battery light had gone out. I got a spare alternator but exactley the same thing.
Are the 2 related ie window washer and no voltage. could it be simple like a fuse or relay. Is there a seperate voltage regulator.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Cheers.
Mark

 

I believe the voltage regulator is built into the alternator. I'd check the continuity between the alternator and the positive terminal of the battery...as well as any ground connections. If anything is corroded it can easily cause a voltage drop as you're experiencing. Test the voltage the alternator is putting out directly at the positive connection on the alternator body...if it's putting out sufficient voltage, but that voltage is significantly less at the battery, then you know it's a resistance issue between the alt. and battery. Good luck

 

Thanks.
It turned out to be a 5 amp fuse!
Cheers.
Mark

 

Unfortunately, you forgot to mention WHICH fuse it was

I'm experiencing the same effect, but haven't found any fuses to be defective.
Might open a new thread...