Can you pull battery cable

Don't do this! To test the alternator measure the battery voltage with engine off, then with engine running at cruising speed (say 2000 RPM). You should see the voltage increasing by about 1 Volt. The voltage should not drop much from this level when you add load (headlights, A/C). If you don't have a voltmeter, buy one. It will be a lot cheaper than repairing the damage caused by disconnecting the battery.

Some auto parts stores (like Auto Zone) will test it for free (and your battery too). Call some.

If your battery gauge keeps going down and doesn't go back up then chances are your alternator is not charging and you are running on battery only. This might get you 10 miles if you are lucky.

i took it in to kragen and it was toast. can't believe how much they've gone up. last one i bought was $75. thanks for info. i'll save it for next time

Happy Traveler wrote:

i took it in to kragen and it was toast. can't believe how muchthey've gone up. last one i bought was $75. thanks for info. i save it for next time