Check gauges light coming on after dead battery and speaker install

[huber_safari-TJ]

hi all,
I have a similar issue, i just got into my first jeep, a 99 4L tj, and I decided to put in some new speakers I grabbed from the wreckers.

I killed the battery and had to jump it while I was doing the wiring on the first speaker, like a true amateur and now after I got it running again, my check gauge is coming on, and voltmeter pinned at 19v, intermittently at first, but now as I type it wont stop, I'm worried my alternator is going to overcharge and cook my battery. could my attempt at just throwing in some new speakers of caused all of this? or was it my initial error in killing my battery that is now causing the alternator to constantly try to recharge my battery. Please! I need my daily to run reliable!

 

[Jerry Bransford]

Dead batteries cause all kinds of problems. The engine will not run well or for long after removing the jump start battery when there's a dead battery. Modern alternators like the TJ has require 12 volts from the battery to operate and to keep the battery charged. The alternator cannot charge its own dead battery. You have to use a bench top charger over night to get the battery charged well enough to operate the alternator.

The 19v at the volt meter often indicates a bad/dirty/loose connection at the battery. Remove both battery connectors and thoroughly clean them using a wire brush or a battery brush. Then securely/tightly reinstall them.

 

[Chris]

X2 to what Jerry said.

If I had to guess, you have a bad battery or bad terminals (or both).

 

[CharlesHS]

When you try to start your Jeep and the voltage drops below 12.1 VDC while cranking the engine; your battery more than likely is on the way out...

 

[huber_safari-TJ]

changed battery, magically it works.

who'd of thunk, right? haha, thanks everyone!