Help!!! Charging system!!!

[pmf608]

Sorry - I know I'm multi-posting, but its urgent!

URGENT!!! I need the truck to move tomorrow.

Tonight, my charging system display in my 2001 Silverado 1500, 4.8L would randomly come on for a few seconds, and I'm scared it could be a serious problem. If anyone could help, that would be great.

Here's the rundown:
- Message center would show charging system light
- fuel gauge & temp. gauge would drop to 0
- Automatic gear indicator would turn off (gears would show, but not that I was in drive)
- Voltage gauge stayed constant (around 15ish - a little high, but it seemed ok)
- NO electronics dimmed, failed, or malfunctioned, other than instrument cluster
- power brakes and steering still worked
- No changes in how the engine ran
- only accessories on were heater, auto dim mirror, and HID headlights
- at one point, the entire instrument cluster went into the startup test, with all lights on (airbag, brake, etc.)

What I've figured out:
- It shouldn't be my new HID's (first drive with them) because it happened with standard high beams on
- Drive belt on alternator appears OK - its old but its in a good enough shape
- Alternator seems to be spinning...
- This DID NOT happen at all while at a stop or idleing.


I REALLY NEED THE TRUCK TOMORROW, as I'm moving, so if anyone could help me out, it would be great. Thanks in advance.

[Big_Blue]

The only place your lacking juice is the dash?

Sounds like a circuit breaker problem or an intermittent ground

[pmf608]

Thanks. I think it could be something to do with the instrument cluster, because all gauges, lights, accessories, etc. were fine except the message center, gear indicator, fuel gauge, and temp gauge