2009 Silverado HD Electrical

[ChevMech]

A good while back I posted a topic on this forum asking about the proper way to run cable to power a winch on a trailer. I bought 25 ft of 4 gauge cable, two quick connects, and a battery cutoff switch. Today was the first time I've actually used it, and everything works great. I want to thank everyone who contributed to that post.

 

Now for the problem. I let the truck idle when I'm using the winch. The lights dim, but not enough to make me worry. I'm getting "check battery charging system" on the DIC. Am I overworking my electrical system, or is my alternator weak? I've gotten this message before with just the extra load of the trailer lights on the system.

[MORSNO]

I'd say it's the battery, not the alternator. You're probably still running the original battery right?

[ChevMech]

Yes I'm running an original style battery. When I replaced it a year ago, I put a little heavier one in it. I forget exactly what it is rated for, or what the manufacturer originally called for.

 

Would an Delco battery go bad that quickly?