Poll: alternator life span

[Frank M]

It depends on what failed in the alternator.
Brushes usually last 200,000 miles +.
Pulley can fail anytme as well as diode bridge or regulator.
Bearings last along time as well.

Many alternators only need a brushes, regulator or pully for repair.

[Maxodus]

Good points Frank - i'm gonna take out mine and scrutinize which particular component failed me. Putting my Sherlock Holmes hat on.

[Maxodus]

some progress - opened up the engine bay and bearings and wiring and brushes on the alternator "looked" ok. So the other components may be at fault here (thinking regulator).

Gotta get my hands dirty and dig into the bay and pull out the alternator! Tight spot i've heard...

[Mike_Yi]

Before you think about removing your alternator, spray the sleeve at the rear of the inboard bolt with PB Blaster a day ahead of time. Then do it again shortly (an hour or so) before you try to remove your alternator. I broke my alternator trying to get it out. While JB Weld fixed it, it was a PITA.

Also, be VERY careful if you remove your regulator. On two alternators with two screws each, I broke off 3 of the 4. They are tough to remove.

[Maxodus]

Originally Posted by Mike_Yi

Before you think about removing your alternator, spray the sleeve at the rear of the inboard bolt with PB Blaster a day ahead of time. Then do it again shortly (an hour or so) before you try to remove your alternator. I broke my alternator trying to get it out. While JB Weld fixed it, it was a PITA.

Also, be VERY careful if you remove your regulator. On two alternators with two screws each, I broke off 3 of the 4. They are tough to remove.

Thanks for the pointers regarding the regulator screws - i better watch out for them this weekend when i try to remove them!