Blew a water pump. I think the antifreeze caused the alternator belt to slip. Check gauges light came on. Voltmeter went to 0. I was surprised as most voltmeters are reading entire system voltage and batteries are still up.  Does the dodge voltmeter just read alternator out put?  On a related subject. I only get 50,000 miles on NAPA new water pumps. This truck and my older 1st gen also. Is that typical pump life for these pumps?

Shouldn't go to zero, if it doesn't normally go to zero when the key is on run with the engine off.  Something else is up...  I don't know much about 1st gens though, likely something shorted.  

 

I'd look through your wiring for an exposed, broke, or loose connection although I bet it works fine when it dries out.  

Edited April 25, 20169 yr by CSM

Mine normally reads battery voltage with the key on. As far as water pump longevity, I replaced mine with one the normal parts house pumps about 110k miles ago with no issues as of yet. I would think 50k is a very short life.

I will say I've check this out. As soon as the battery voltage drops from 12.00 to 11.99 on a digital meter the gauges fall to the 8V position and chimes the CHECK GAGE light. Even though your still above the 8V at 11.99 and falling slowly.

Edited April 25, 20169 yr by Mopar1973Man

What mike described is what it did. Dropped to left, 8v ?  Never seen a voltmeter that didn't just read system voltage.  Dodge has a neat system that lets you know a problem is coming.  After putting on the new pump, I see the tensioner had the belt running way forward on the water pump. new tensioner moved the belt to a position that would put less stress on the pump bearing. Thanks for the input.

Personally I wished it showed actual voltage of the battery and system then when it got to 12.00 or 11.99 then trigger the CHECK GAGE light. Then set the central timer to chime once every 3-5 minutes reminding you there is a problem. That just my personal preference. At least then if your trying to limp home the gauge functions and you can plan accordingly.