Charging system issues - Battery cables or Alternator?

[Ni-Ojjisan]

Greetings Nicoclub,

This is my first post here and I am hoping to get some advice in regards to the charging system in my 1992 Nissan Pathfinder SE-V6.

So the issue presented:

I started the truck and noticed the dash board lights for the battery, AT-Trans, Check Engine were all lit and that the radio was turning on and off intermittantly. I let the truck run for a while and it started losing power after a few minutes, until it finally died. I have had this problem before in other cars and figured that the alternator brushes were worn down and need replacing. However, I replaced the whole alternator four years ago and think it might be a little soon for the brushes wear out. (not to mention you can't buy them in parts stores anymore.)

After some research online, I found that worn battery cable connectors and wires could keep the alternator from charging the battery. Is this really a common issue and is it worth replacing the cable or connectors?

The big question is this:

Is there a normal order of operations for a problem like this? I have an alternator being sent to the local parts store, but it will be a few days before it gets here so I might as well explore other (cheaper) options. What do you reccomend?

Attempted:
Jumping battery, but the truck died shortly after.
Tested battery, it holds a charge. (replaced in the last 6months.)
Truck will run with a fully charged battery at 12v, but will die when the battery is disconnected.

Thanks for any help.

[04pathse]

In my opinion, it sounds like the most likely cause is a faulty alternator.

You should not disconnect the battery while the engine is running as it can damage the vehicle, one way you can test the alternator is check the voltage at the battery with a voltmeter while the vehicle is running and you should get at least 13 volts or so. If you are not getting that than most likely the alternator is bad.

[Buzzman]

Attempted:
Jumping battery, but the truck died shortly after.
Tested battery, it holds a charge. (replaced in the last 6months.)
Truck will run with a fully charged battery at 12v, but will die when the battery is disconnected.

Thanks for any help.

Alternator is definitely bad.

Voltage while idling should read about 13.5 volts.

Technically, if the alternator is good, the engine will run without a battery,
so if you started it and then disconnected the battery, it should keep running.