Question Batteries draining!!!

[airdrew99]

I got in my truck this morning and the batteries were completely dead. I just drove the truck yesterday (started and ran fine). I had to jump start it off my '68 Mustang. It took about 20 minutes before it would start. The truck ran about 45 minutes before I shut it off. I disconnected my older battery, but left my other one still connected. I don't think my connected battery is bad because it is an Interstate battery and just 2 yrs old. Both batteries read 12.3V when I shut the truck off. After sitting about 4 hours, my Interstate battery read 11.6V and my older battery still shows 12.3V. I don't see anything that is turned on (lights, radio, radar detector, etc.). Is their any common problems in these F-250s that cause the batteries to drain? I'm going to let it set until late tonight and then check voltage again. I'm thinking something is draining the batteries, but it is possible my Interstate battery has gone bad. Any input?

Drew

 

[DaveBen]

These batteries are, in effect, one battery in two places. They must be replaced in matching pairs, at the same time. The older battery is killing your newer battery. This is the number ONE cause of diesel truck problems. Change them BOTH. You should see at least 12.5v after they have been sitting for some time, like two hours. Sorry for the good news, Drew.

Dave

 

[Stroked68]

I had the same prob with mine. I drove it to work as usual. Came out to go to lunch and the door chime wouldnt even come on. Apparently my AIH relay was stuck open and was turnin on the AIH. It would drain those batteries in less than 15min! That lil heater really uses the juice. I did the right thing and deleted it like most people do. Might be that or just yer batteries or battery is bad like already mentioned. . You will fig it out. We got yer back!

 

[airdrew99]

What is the best way to isolate the AIH? Is it the other relay beside the GPR? What tells it to turn on and off, normally? Thank you.

Drew

 

[BIG JOE]

What is the best way to isolate the AIH?

** 1.Remove the Hot & Ground wires from the AIH and tape them up ?

2. Remove the Hot & Ground wires from the AIH.. AND the relay.. and put them in your "Things I took Off My Truck" box. R& R the AIH thing and plug the hole with a Dodge oil drain plug.


Is it the other relay beside the GPR? YES

What tells it to turn on and off, normally? Thank you.

Drew

The PCM controlled Cold Start circuit. The GP's, AIH, EBPV and High Idle will cycle, or stay energized until the PCM gets the right temp data from the oil & coolant, temp sensors.

Simply Put.

 

[dpantazis]

the only way to figure out what device is pulling power is to use an ampmeter to read draw on the wiring harness. barring that, start pulling fuses.

changing things haphazardly will only lead to more frustration.

your alternator could also be bad sucking power then the truck is sitting.

 

[dpantazis]

the only way to figure out what device is pulling power is to use an ampmeter to read draw on the wiring harness. barring that, start pulling fuses.

changing things haphazardly will only lead to more frustration.

your alternator could also be bad sucking power then the truck is sitting.

 

[Stroked68]

Removing the AIH will throw a soft code (Non CEL). You wont know it till you hook a scanner to it. I've also read that you got to hook the blue? wire up or you will throw a CEL? I've totally disconnected mine and hasnt thrown anything. Im assuming it wont throw a code till the parameters are met for the AIH to come on? There are quite a few things that have to be into place before the AIH even comes on. Probably alot of trucks have never had the AIH even come on depending on where you live. There is info in the WIKI section or go to Guzzle's site.

 

[airdrew99]

I charged both batteries all night and took my truck into Autozone. I isolated the batteries. My newer Interstate battery checked fine and my older battery checked bad. I also had the alternator checked. It checked fine (including the diodes).

 

[BIG JOE]

I charged both batteries all night and took my truck into Autozone. I isolated the batteries. My newer Interstate battery checked fine and my [older battery checked bad.] I also had the alternator checked. It checked fine (including the diodes).

Like everything.. It's Yer Call, but you should always replace Batteries.. With Quality batteries, in the correct Group and CCA's (or better).. [ IN PAIRS *]

* preferably, a Pair, with the same manufacture date. (Born on date)