96 7.3 Idles rough when alternator starts charging and check engine light comes on.

[Bobcat]

I have a 96 7.3 powerstroke that was running fine. Next day it wouldn't start. I replace the cam sensor and it starts but when the alternator starts charging the check engine light comes on and the truck almost stalls. It runs but runs very rough and lacks power when you accelerate. Any help is greatly apreciated. There is oil in the upper reservoir. I did recently change the oil but level is ok and all filters have recently been changed. Also fuel in filter bowl has a reddish tint to it is this normal. Please help!

[power95]

im not positive but it could be the computer. correct me if i am wrong

[Bobcat]

Are you saying you think the computer is shot? Wow! i bet thats a pretty penny.

[mschn99]

Any time the motor is on the altenator is charger.....thats not gonna have anything to do with it....

Check the harnesses at the valve covers both inside and outside of the valve covers....there is a very good chance you have a burnt connector...

[Bobcat]

Thanks i'll check those in a minute. cold as heck here. I know when the motor is on the alternator is charging but about 30 seconds after startup the volts gauge goes up and the truck want's to stall, check engine light comes on and it sounds like its missing badly. I'll let you know about the connectors thanks a bunch.

[mschn99]

That tells me a little more.......

That means its wanting to stall more than likely when the glow plugs kick off. Since the check engine light is on....get the code first and check those harnesses and we will start from there....

[Bobcat]

Yup I had a burnt connector! Is there something that causes these to burn? I dont want to relace it and it just burn again if there could possibly be a bigger problem.