02dodge2500ctd

I was taking off my raptor wiring harness for the second time and didn't disconnect the batteries, well I accidently hit the wrench from the red positive wire on the alternator to some type of metal and it sparked. Does this mean my alternator is shot? On the way home my lights kept getting dimmer, and now it won't even turn over because the batteries are DEAD. Is there anything else it could be? Would it be easier to replace it or try and rebuild it? Any help would be great. Thanks

mishkaya

Have you checked the main fuse at the fuse junction block? I believe it's a 140 amp fuse, and you most likely blew it. I would start there before having the alternator tested.
mishkaya

02dodge2500ctd

No I didn't check any fuses. Where is the fuse junction block? Is it the fuse box where all the fuses are on the driver side under the hood?

mishkaya

That's the place. It will be the one where the red wire comes in from the battery.
mishkaya

02dodge2500ctd

How can I tell if it's bad? I hear something inside rattling, but I can't tell if it's blown? Anyway to tell??? Thanks

mishkaya

You should be able to check it visually just like any other fuse, but if you can't you should test it for continuity.
mishkaya

Purplezr2

Use a multimeter with a continuity tester and check to see if it has continuity then its good, if not then you need a new one.

02dodge2500ctd

Any idea if that fuse is a dealer only part, or will my local autozone or napa carry it? Thanks for all the help!

mishkaya

Never was able to get one at an auto store. My only choice was the dealer, but this was some years ago. So was it the fuse?
mishkaya

02dodge2500ctd

Well I hope it's the fuse, I pulled the cover off the fuse and the metal piece that connects both sides fell out.... So I'm hoping thats all it is. Do you remember how much the fuse cost? Being a dealer only item it will probably be ridiculous.

mishkaya

It was expensive, like $30 or something. I somehow am not so sure that's it though, because if you blow the main fuse you would have no power to anything as that is your main circuit. I will take a look at the charging system to see what I can find.
mishkaya

02dodge2500ctd

Well I had power until my batteries died and now I have nothing. I remember when it grounded I heard something pop and it came from towards the fuse box. Geesh after $30 for a fuse I really hope it works.

mishkaya

Have you checked fuse #1 which is for the batteries? I am willing to bet that you blew this fuse as you were able to run the truck until the batteries died. It's a 50amp fuse, and you should be able to get it at any parts store.
mishkaya

02dodge2500ctd

Just went out and checked fuse #2 which is for the batteries and it looks good. I think I will just go to the dealer tomorrow and get fuse #1. $30 is better than $175, so maybe I will be lucky. Is it possible it blew the fuse and the alternator?

mishkaya

It's possible, but I doubt you did if the truck was not running. Did you check the top left most fuse? It's #1 and not #2, as the main fuse doesn't have a # but is called gen. Fuse #2 is for the ignition and should have been good as you were able to run the truck. My money is on the battery fuse at this point. It is actually possible to fry the alternator with a short, but it's actually somewhat rare.
mishkaya