Recharging the batteries - Diesel Forum

mansellp7 · 06-14-2009, 12:22 PM

I have a 2003 f-550 . The batteries were dead after the truck sat for 2 weeks . I put them on the charger , then still had to jump the truck off to get it to crank. I drove it around for a while. How long does it take for the alternator recharges the batteries . I had the alternator replaced last year by the dealer, so its a ford alternator. Thanks

ksyoung · 06-14-2009, 05:02 PM

In a gas engine car or truck with a single battery the time is generally about 20 minutes of driving at 2000 rpm, and that is to recharge the battery from ONE start. A diesel with two batteries could take longer given the crank time and the amperage draw.

rock_doctor · 06-14-2009, 06:26 PM

The batteries should not have gone dead from sitting 2-weeks. Charge them fully with a charger then have them independently tested. I bet you will find you have at least one bad battery.

69cj · 06-15-2009, 12:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rock_doctor

The batteries should not have gone dead from sitting 2-weeks. Charge them fully with a charger then have them independently tested. I bet you will find you have at least one bad battery.

And if you do, replace both of them. Will be cheaper in the long run.