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10th January 2021, 11:05 AM
#1
Is my alternator on its way out
Hi all
Started up the GU patrol (2007 CRD) yesterday and the dash lights wouldn't go out (the typical lights you see when alternator is kaput). Used a battery tester which confirmed alternator wasn't producing output. A few hours later I had to move the patrol on to the road, everything back to normal. Retested and all ok. Move the patrol back onto the drive, dash lights back on, alternator kaput. I checked for loose connections/ broken wires but couldn't see anything. I started the patrol this morning, everything ok.
Alternator is only a few years old (a cheapy one), so I am wondering if it is on its way out or something else I should investigate
thanks in advance
NEV
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10th January 2021 11:05 AM
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10th January 2021, 01:07 PM
#2
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10th January 2021, 05:31 PM
#3
Travelling Podologist
Originally Posted by
growler2058
Are the brushes replaceable?
My thought also was brushes. When worn almost at the end of their life they can sit a bit crooked in their holders & not make proper contact with the slip ring. This may explain why seeing the lights is not consistent.
@Growler - do some alternators not have replaceable brushes? Haven’t come across one before?
Another possibility whilst I think of it, only ‘cos I had it happen to me once - brushes were fine but the plastic brush holders had hardened, cracked & were in the process of braking up - same symptoms.
2006 4.2TDi ex-Telstra Remote area Camper. 425w roof mounted solar, 360Ah Aux batts, BCDC1240, Onboard hot & cold pressurised & filtered water, (25 litre hot water calorifier), ARB fridge, ARB freezer, Built in kitchen, heaps of easy access storage, 240v, 3” Genie exhaust + dynotune, 2” lift, 3900kg GVM upgrade, second glovebox, ROH Blaktrak steel wheels, Bridgestone D697's (now Toyo RT's), Redarc gauges/pillarpod, Hema HX-1, Icom 450 CB, dual rear view cameras, Onboard 30amp Victron mains charger, second glovebox, dual seat conversion, TPMS, Boss PX7 onboard air with 9 litre tank, 350w inverter, Steel bullbar, Harrop Eaton diff lock (front), Warn winch, Snorkel, Dual spares , 160 litre water tank, 180 litre fuel in two tanks (approx 1200km range) 2010 Tvan Tanami. (incl another 70 litre water tank) with matching wheels/tyres (& 3rd spare)
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10th January 2021, 05:49 PM
#4
SPAMINATOR
Originally Posted by
Cuppa
My thought also was brushes. When worn almost at the end of their life they can sit a bit crooked in their holders & not make proper contact with the slip ring. This may explain why seeing the lights is not consistent.
@
Growler - do some alternators not have replaceable brushes? Haven’t come across one before?
Another possibility whilst I think of it, only ‘cos I had it happen to me once - brushes were fine but the plastic brush holders had hardened, cracked & were in the process of braking up - same symptoms.
I’m sure I have replaced them before, just can’t remember on what? May have been an old Holden even
IF YA DONT GET STUCK YA AINT TRYIN HARD ENOUGH........OR YA TOOK THE CHICKEN TRACK
WARNING: TOWBALLS USED WITH SNATCHSTRAPS DO KILL!!
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The Following User Says Thank You to growler2058 For This Useful Post:
Mickhead (10th January 2021)
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10th January 2021, 06:26 PM
#5
Patrol God
Different horses for different courses. Any different brand can have different set ups. Some will have replaceable brushes others need a whole regulator assembly. Or if it is computer controlled, whatever. You will have to do a bit of research or take it it out and look.
Don't be afraid to get a little creative. We used Ford Falcon brushes in a Nippondenso alternator by drilling some holes to accommodate the different style of pigtail. That alternator lasted another 7 years.
Last edited by mudnut; 10th January 2021 at 06:29 PM.
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10th January 2021, 08:43 PM
#6
thanks guys for your prompt response, given the alternator was a cheapy (130 from memory), might invest in a decent one. Anyone know about OEX ones from repco. Can Pick one up tomorrow.
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10th January 2021, 08:55 PM
#7
OEX are fine, had a couple, reliable.
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