Alternators

[Damonski]

I have a sneaky suspicion my alternator or its drive belt might be on the way out.

Ive noticed once or twice my warning light just and no more glowing for a couple of seconds every 30 miles or so.

Im going to change the drivebelt after Christmas, but in the meantime Im wondering on Alternator choices.

Mine is currently whatever they offer on the Mpi engine, but does anyone know if there are different ones and if so, would a bigger one just simply bolt into place?

Cheers

[drmike]

My light did what you described and got progressively worse until I had to replace the alternator at some cost. I had been told you can't service the modern alternators but after the deed was done I was chatting to my local motor factors and they said brushes - no problem. They could basically supply anything I wanted so I could have possibly saved a wedge of money. Bother.

Mike

[hobbit]

Always check for a local automotive electricla repair specialist, you should find one nearby, most of the starters/alternators can be serviced

Its just a lot better for the dealers/factors to sell you a new unit, or a recon?

Go directly to the people who fix them, worth a visit at least, they will normally be honest with the item

BUT...Check the prices of replacement units first, sometimes it can be cheaper to replace than repair

[drmike]

I tried the local recon man and he wasn't terribly helpful and the local factor supplied him with his parts. So, next time I have a problem I'll get stuck in.

Mike

[Damonski]

Cheers guys,

I was sort of waiting for the light to start flickering especially now it has the split charge going etc etc :)

Ive disconnected the split charge relay and everything seems to be normal for now. That should get me over Christmas at least until my local factor wakes up again and I can query those brushes :)

Cheers!!

Merry Christmas!

[hobbit]

Not just bushes, check the voltage regulator as well