There are plenty of reasons why your heavy-duty equipment won’t start, ranging from the easy-to-remedy issues, like running out of fuel, to more complicated ones, such as a malfunctioning electrical system. Diagnosing an electrical problem can be hit or miss, especially if you’re unsure of what to look for. The automatic assumption may be that it’s a discharged battery. However, dead batteries and bad alternators tend to exhibit similar signs. Figure out how to diagnose the issue below.

What Happens in the Electrical System

To better understand why your equipment is having a hard time starting, you should first know how the electrical system works. The battery provides enough power or electrical current to the starter, which gets the engine going. Meanwhile, the alternator keeps the battery charged and powers up other electrical components. Keep in mind that when one of these parts fails, the vehicle or equipment won’t start or operate properly.

How to Diagnose the Problem

Battery

Most batteries have an expected life span of more than three years. Pay attention to low whining noises, hard or inconsistent starts on cold mornings, and no or slow engine cranks, which may indicate a problem. If you’ve jumpstarted the battery more frequently than usual, then you may need to replace it.

Alternator

One sign of a faulty alternator is a dead battery, particularly if the latter is still in usable condition. If your vehicle starts and stalls midway through, it means that the alternator is not feeding the battery enough charge and it is incapable of powering up the engine. The same goes if, after you’ve jumpstarted the forklift or tractor, the engine stops and loses power. Look out for flickering or dimming headlights, burning odors, and grinding noises as signs that the alternator is on its way out.     

Starter

Since the starter is the component responsible for turning over the engine, a faulty one won’t start the vehicle at all. Listen for clicking sounds as you turn the key in the ignition—if the vehicle fails to start up but the lights are on, you likely need a new one.

When it’s time to replace your alternator or starter, trust Eubanks Auto Electric. Serving the entire community in and around De Kalb, TX, they have provided exceptional diagnosis and repairs on forklifts, trucks, tractors, and other heavy-duty machinery since 1954. Call (903) 667-2081 to schedule service or inquire about their available truck or tractor alternators online.