Rob

Thanks for clearing that up Mike. The couple times I've been by his place shuttling parts for others, it's always been a sales pitch for something. Rob

I have the Innova you mention as it does the new CAN standard also but is backward compatible with OBD-II which is becomming obsolete. OTC stuff is pretty good and upgradeable, but simply too expensive if not used often. I typically look to purchase this type of stuff second hand as I'm not working on new vehicles daily. Rob

Go to an automotive tool store and purchase what is called a "carbon pile". This is a real load tester for batteries and cheap ones will only be about $50.00. The little ones that are hand held will burn up if you run them very long as they dissapate the current and resulting heat through the cage. These are nothing more than a fixed resistance. Virtually worthless for checking batteries, (my opinion). If you haul your batteries into an Interstate Battery Center, or Batteries Plus, either outfit will check your batteries for you with the hope of selling you new ones. They don't charge for this service but expect you to purchase theirs should your batteries be defective. If you find a single battery with a bad cell, replace them all. They are in series connected in the truck. If you only replace the single battery that shows defective, the others will most likely take the new one out on short measure. Not saying get rid of them, just don't use them again in the same installation. For instance install the good pair into a vehicle that uses two batteries, or two different applications. Just don't use your know good, (but used) batteries with a new one in the same installation. Rob

The truck is listed by a guy from northern Illinois that does not own it. Everything he lists is astronomical in either price, or expectations. Rob

Check them individually. With a fully charged battery, take a voltage reading and record. I would then put a 500 ampere draw upon them for 30 seconds and take another voltage reading which should be at least 95% of the original reading. Look for a rapid fall off of current draw during the test; this is indicative of a bad cell. Rob

Check via a load test for a shorted cell in one of the batteries first. If these test well, have the alternator checked via a load test. It could be an intermittent electrical connection point but from your description, I think the problem is more hardware related. Rob

Anybody have any input, (good and bad) on the GM products as far as engines and trans? Gotta replace the Dodge and don't really need anything new so am looking at about five years in age. Don't really like the looks of the Dodge products in this timeframe but the GMC looks appealing and they drive well. I've never pulled a load with one of these engines although have probably repaired a couple dozen that were wrecked. I have preference for an automatic transmission. Thanks, Rob

They make good sausage. Rob

Think you and I have much more in common with core beliefs than you know. Rob

Thanks Thad, I got to get that truck either repaired, or replaced shortly as I'm already missing it! I am to meet with the appraiser this morning if he doesn't cancel again. I know him so shouldn't be too big of deal. Rob

Found my book tonight. I'll look into copies shortly. Rob

It's been quite warm here. You are further north and probably cooler. Do you need randyp's phone number? She was tired of me so she left. Don't think she'd come back. Rob

Be different, (like me). I never fit in my generation either. Was always "hangin" with the next older ones, and definately paid attention to the generation prior to them. Rob

A very short lifespan, or a long, agonizing trip back to reality. Rob

It's her "season". The hair comes back but it you really want to hear her nag, MARRY her!!, (It's alright being married to two different species at the same time). Rob

That thing on the right is ugly. Rob

That does sound like a logical reason but ATF, (Dexron) readily mixes with any engine oil. A lot of old timers used to use a quart of Dexron in the crankcase prior to oil change as a flush for gum and varnish. Rob

People born before 1946 were called The Silent generation.. - People born between 1946 and 1964 are called The Baby Boomers. - People born between 1965 and 1979 are called Generation X, . - And people born between 1980 and 2010 are called Generation Y , Why do we call the last group Generation Y? Y should I get a job? Y should I leave home and find my own place? Y should I get a car when I can borrow yours? Y should I clean my room? Y should I wash and iron my own clothes? Y should I buy any food? Stands to reason eh? Rob

Use MAPP gas through your propane torch. Much higher BTU content than LP. Rob

Hmmm, He still hasn't come to his senses. Thanks! Rob

I've seen it but paid no attention. I left the Dodge in the spot it was hit in. Not bothering anybody where it is sitting. Rob

Well today was not a good day with the "Trusty, yet Crusty" old Dodge making the "ultimate sacrifice" keeping me safe and protecting my honor. I spent most of the weekend trenching and laying new water line for a dear friend and when I was returning the trencher this morning, a C7500 series Chevy roadside service truck hit the Dodge backing up not seeing me setting behind. This truck was heavy including the Autocrane and full complement of service gear contained within. I was not hurt but the Dodge was hit squarely in the left front wheel collapsing the suspension, bending the frame and wheel etc. The front end was shoved over nearly 3.5 feet on the pavement. Comes out the driver never even checked his mirrors before backing up at a rapid pace. I'm quite certain given the age, condition, and mileage the outcome is not going to be good. Many years I have placed my "trust in the crust" bringing old trucks home and I will certainly miss this ole girl. Gotta meet with their insurance adjuster tomorrow morning so this should be entertaining...... Rob

I've used Mutual Wheel in E. Peoria, IL for them in the past. Myself, (and I have the same setup) I am replacing these with type 24/24 spring brake chambers which are mostly a slip fit. This rear suspension looks to be a 34,000# setup and there is clearance if I remember correctly. Rob

Looks good. Rob

You are not in the minority. Rob