Hello, I am running a Cat 252b and when the head lights are on the machine doesn't move and the parking light and lap bar blink erratically. When I turn off the lights the machine will move and function as normal. I've read about checking the ECM for corrosion and the joystick magnet thing when you have a malfunctioning parking light. Should I be following the same diagnostics or is there something else involved with the headlight switches interfering with the ability to drive. Thank you.
Sounds like a charging issue. Loosing power when the lights are on. I would start with the alternator and make sure it is putting out 14 volts. Could be a ground problem on the cab as well. There are several grounds under the back side of the cab on one stud. I would check and clean these.
Could be the Cat in the headlights syndrome - similar to the deer in the headlights....they just freeze.
Thanks, I'll look into this.
Had to jump-start the machine this morning, 10v on cold battery. So with the engine running, no lights on the alternator is only putting out 12-12.5v, is that indicative of a bad alternator? Also on the main battery ground cable both ends are showing signs of wear; fraying/exposed wires, but no corrosion. I am going to change out the ground cable. Will the ground cable be effecting the charge volts? edit - If it matters I checked the battery again after the machine ran for a few minutes and it read 11.5v with the engine off, does that mean the alternator is working or barely working?
sounds like it's not charging... :drinkup
Sounds like it's not charging. A lot of the electronics in newer machines are voltage sensitive, so if your alternator isn't charging, and your battery is 10v, your systems aren't getting correct signals from your controls.