2003 3.0 Diesel ZD30 instrument issue

[MaverickAlby]

Hi Everyone,
I had my Nissan Patrol for a year and a Month ago the Sub Tank, Hand Brake and Battery signs started to turn on when starting the engine. After few KM they turned off, but if I left the car stopped for few days, they would have turned on again.
In the last couple of weeks though, I had to Jump Start the car twice so I thought it was the battery running low, but while driving, those signs were still on, all the instruments also started flickering and the radio turned off.
I went to change the battery but the guy told me that the battery is not too low and that those issues are related to something else and not the battery.
Does anyone have any idea of what it could be?
Thank you so much in advance for your help!

[Mickhead]

Alternator
Check battery voltage when running.Should increase.
Check overrun / clutch pulley on alternator if you have one to make sure it is not slipping.

[MaverickAlby]

Thank you so much mate, really appreciated!!!
Worst case scenario, if I have to replace the whole alternator, do you know how much should cost? Just to make sure I won't get ripped off.

[mudski]

Check all the earth connections. Patrols are known for shit earth connections and adding an extra from the gearbox to the chassis rail will help.

[Poonami Express]

Hey MaverickAlby,
I had a similar issue on my 2003 ST Wagon with ZD30 engine.
I agree with Mudski suggestion above to add a decent 6-10mm flexible earth strap from the gearbox to the chassis rail.

There is a cluster of earth connections under the turbo air intercooler.
Remove the plastic cover on top of the air intercooler.
Remove the air cooler 5 mounting bolts.
Loosen the hose clamps on both air hoses to the intercooler.
Separate the electrical connector at the front of the air intercooler.
Now you should be able to lift the air intercooler out of the way.
The cluster of earth connections are on the top of the engine on the drivers side near the glow plugs.
Remove the securing bolts for the earth connections and clean any oil/ grease/ corrosion off the connectors and the motor mounting point with a can of CRC Contact Cleaner , emery cloth, rag.
Secure the earth connections and put the intercooler back on, don’t forget to put the electrical connector back together at the front of the intercooler.
Hope that helps!