Dslbnz,

How true about the 617 Diesel engine. I made it back from Alaska to PA with a non operating alternator. I had a battery charger with me so I just charged the battery every night to get the engine started in the morning. The engine never missed a beat for 6000+ miles.

At the time I didn't know how easy it is to change the alternator brushes which is what the problem was. Now I carry spare set with me. BTW, the brushes I put in the alternator more than 10 years and 100,000+ miles are still functioning but its probably about time for new ones.

P E H