Hey everyone, so this whole problem started yesterday morning when my truck didn't start as fast as normal...but I didn't think much of it and went to school, well after school it was completely dead, wouldn't crank at all, so I jumped it and got it running and drove about five miles to work...45min later when I was going to leave it was dead again, so I jumped it and when I got home I let it run for like a half hour, so it started for me ok for the rest of the night(3-4starts)....then this morning it was dead again and I had to get a ride to school...I really have no idea why it's not working, all the battery and alternator leads are tight and wires are fine...when I'm driving the voltage won't go above about 12 on the meter....please help me out and thanks!!

 

I would get it started and take it to your nearest Napa, Autozone, etc. Have them test the battery and charging system out.

 

Alright I can do that, I was suggested by a friend to get it started and then remove the battery positive while it's running to check if it's the alternator...is this a good way to check?

 

Yes and no. Some say that by disconnecting the battery, you may cause a fluctuation in power that could damage the electronics. Others say it's perfectly fine. Personally, I don't recommend it. I test the system voltage with a multimeter to see if it goes up once the engine is started, then turn on EVERYTHING in the vehicle and see if it remains constant. That should give you a pretty good indication of whether the alternator is working properly or not.