Alternator Prob......

[Guest]

Hi Guys,

I've been having probs starting the ol' girl ('86 3.2 Targa) due a flat battery. []

its a new battery so its def holding the charge.

just had the batt charge / discharge checked by a local garage and whilst the alternator is charging the battery as soon as any electrics are switched on the battery is no longer charging its being drained so if i use the lights car wont start again! and tjhe charge its giving is not as high as it should be.

it points to needing a new alternator. []

My question is: if i get a reconditioned alternator how easy is it to fit? i know the front of the engine needs to come out to access it but is it something that can be done at home or is it really a proper garage job?

Any info / advice greatly appricitated!

Happy New Yr to you all

Rgds

Aaron

 

[Guest]

Hi Aaron
Firstly I would check the earth strap from the battery to the body.Perhaps even remove it and ensure both connecting faces are "nice n' bright".Another favorite seems to be removing and cleaning all the fuseholder connections.(better done with the battery disconnected)
Ian

 

[Guest]

Good reply Ian,
Another trick to try is put a good heavy jumper lead from the motor/gearbox onto the body or better still - onto the negative terminal of the batt. If the problem dissapears - then you have a poor earth someplace - typical.[]

 

[Guest]

thaanks - will give it a go

 

[Guest]

Hi Aaron m8... good to see you posting on the forum AT LAST! [] Let us know what you find the problem to be when you fix her up. Don't forget to post a couple of pics so we can see the beauty! []

 

[Guest]

Aaron

To answer your other question the job of replacing the alternator is an easy one - a couple of hours max for a first go taking it easy and checking everything twice (assuming you can resist the polish / paint temptation). Make sure you check where the cables go (a digital camera is handy here) and that the 'divertor' is put back correctly (ditto) and you'll have no problems.

Couple of other things to watch -

Put a cloth over the back of the engine compartment to stop scratching the paintwork (it's quite tight)
You can easily remove the alternator by putting a plank of wood over the housing with a clearance hole over the shaft and tightening the nut
Clean out the top of the engine of any leaves etc before putting it all back - mine was clear but I have heard of others which weren't

Good Luck

Roy