Just noticed a weird thing which the dealer says its "normal".


Details, 03 DMAX/ALLY, 35,700 miles. When I start the truck in the morning, The charging gauge reads about 11volts, after about 30 seconds, it moves up to 14.1 volts. The lights (headlights and dashligts) gets brighter. This also happens when I start the truck to go home from work.


I'm suspecting a bad battery. But the dealer says all is normal. Has anyone else seen this ???


Thanks in advance.

my truck does this also. i was wondering if a second alternator would solve this problem. if it actually is a problem.

Do a search thru the forums and you will find the answer of normal due to glow plugs and other electrical draws that happen at start-up. A commonly discussed topic.

Normal, my truck also does this. 150K miles

Thanks for the replies, It's a little more comforting. However, I know this hasn't been present since I bought the truck. I park this outside, pointing at the garage door. This is how I noticed the lights getting brighter.


I also noticed that the Clear-to-Start light takes longer to clear. So I was suspecting a battery.


Thanks,

It's normal.


The glow plug cycle is computer controlled based on engine temp. If it's colder outside, then the glow plugs will be on longer. If the engine is warm, then the cycle will be shorter or glow plugs will not cycle. In addition, the intake air heater takes a buttload of juice. Don't remember what the exact temp for that puppy coming on or how long.


If one has an LLY motor, then the cycle is shorter and more intense.