Battery, Alternator or Voltage Regulator?

[JAB'70]

Here is the symptom(s). Drove my truck to work Friday, about 40 miles both ways. Came home parked it for about 2 hours. Drove it later that that night to met for wife for dinner (about 20 miles round trip). Left the eatery, then had to make a stop before heading home. When I came out of the store, would not start. It barely turned over, I inspected everything then came to the conclusion that the battery was dead. Called my son who came and gave me a jump. while heading home (about a 5 mile drive) The lights and instrument panel dimmed and the radio would not come on. Any comments???

[cdowns]

simple things // have you checked the fluid level in the battery? have you disconnected the battery cables and cleaned both ends of both cables?

[truckdude239]

if your headlights dimed its the alt and voltage reg sounds like it is time for a internal Volatge regulator alt swap

i did it to mine cost about 40 buxs and took 30 mins

[jim zag]

Charge the battery, then try this, with the engine running put a voltmeter across the battery. Start turning on stuff like the lights and heater fan etc. It should read between 13.8 and 14.8 volts. To check the battery with the ignition unplugged or coil wire grounded you should be able to crank the engine for 15 seconds and the voltage should not drop below 9.6.

[DANTIP]

Exactly as Jim said. My guess is your charging system is not working. Always check components at an auto parts store (FREE). Secondly always clean and tighten all connections.

[JAB'70]

Well I suspect it's the alternator. I changed my battery last night but haven't had to the chance to check it thing out. My intentions are to do as Jim suggested. I just wanted to throw it out there for other opinions. Thanks for the input.