Alternator dead.. where to buy replacement?

[amitmishra4]

I have a tip to share - taking the alternator to a local shop for testing is not always accurate, as I learnt the hard way. Sometimes, an alternator may fail from excessive heat, after several minutes of running. In my case, when the car started up, the voltage readings were fine, but over time would gradually deteriorate and I did not realize that initially. I took it apart and took it to a local Advance auto parts and they tested it (2 min test) and everything checked out fine. So I figured the problem was elsewhere and in order to test anything else, I had to have the alternator running. I re-installed it (smh) and had the same issue. Finally, ended up buying a re-manufactured unit from AAP and it was easy this time to remove the alternator(coz I had whacked the bushings loose the last time, but was still a PIA to get the new one in. So far, it has been running flawless.

[jmatta]

Check my earlier post...may be late to the game, but it certainly solved my problem.

http://986forum.com/forums/general-discussions/29021-battery-light-came-fixed-cheap.html

[Cebu]

Nice post, I think the photo you took is the clearest shot I've seen yet. I'm going to go with the alternator replacement but appreciate your time providing feedback. I can see how removing the passenger seat makes a difference. I'm definitely not small and nimble so I may end up having to do the same.

Regards.

Originally Posted by jmatta

Check my earlier post...may be late to the game, but it certainly solved my problem.

http://986forum.com/forums/general-discussions/29021-battery-light-came-fixed-cheap.html

[clickman]

If you're going to re-use the pulley, make sure it's operating properly. I didn't even notice mine wasn't clutching properly when I replace my voltage regulator; good thing the guy at the alternator shop did.

[Cebu]

Thanks for the feedback. I'll be honest, I'll have to research the function of the pulley to even know if it's operating properly.

Originally Posted by clickman

If you're going to re-use the pulley, make sure it's operating properly. I didn't even notice mine wasn't clutching properly when I replace my voltage regulator; good thing the guy at the alternator shop did.

[clickman]

Ref thread for pulley info:

http://986forum.com/forums/general-discussions/36341-2001-free-wheeling-alternator-pulley.html

[Cebu]

I was able to get the alternator out without much of a hassle. After reading all the posts I had a good idea how to do it. I did make the mistake though of using a rubber mallet and a punch. Once I used a regular hammer it loosened up nicely and was easy to pry out.

Question:
I ordered the replacement alternator from O'Reilly auto parts, will the alternator come with the pulley? The photo shown on the store computer showed it came with one. I'm picking up the alternator tomorrow. I forgot to ask about a belt, may have to make another trip.

Also.. what is the difference between a car with AC and not. My car has AC and this was a question asked. I'm just curious what are the differences.

Thanks again for the help, much appreciated, your inputs gave me that nudge of confidence to do it myself.

[Cebu]

This is the route I'll be taking. I'm for replacing the whole alternator. I realize replacing the regulator would be the cost savings approach but I just want to get it over and done with. I planned on doing it this weekend but it's Street Vibes weekend

Thank you for the heads up!

Originally Posted by amitmishra4

I have a tip to share - taking the alternator to a local shop for testing is not always accurate, as I learnt the hard way. Sometimes, an alternator may fail from excessive heat, after several minutes of running. In my case, when the car started up, the voltage readings were fine, but over time would gradually deteriorate and I did not realize that initially. I took it apart and took it to a local Advance auto parts and they tested it (2 min test) and everything checked out fine. So I figured the problem was elsewhere and in order to test anything else, I had to have the alternator running. I re-installed it (smh) and had the same issue. Finally, ended up buying a re-manufactured unit from AAP and it was easy this time to remove the alternator(coz I had whacked the bushings loose the last time, but was still a PIA to get the new one in. So far, it has been running flawless.