Alternator

[Guest Ian Maycock]

My alternator appeare to be putting out too many volts. the gauge read 16 (max) when the car is in motion. the problem is that it is causing the battery to spew its contents into the compartment.

 

has anybody else had a similar problem? it was working ok that last time i went out.

 

Iggy

[Longboarder]

The voltage regulator in the alternator is failing/failed resulting in overcharging and it will destroy your battery. Lucas regulators can be replaced. They are not adjustable. Never tried with a denso type but probably easy. But probably easiest and cheapest to visit your local scrappy and get a replacement alternator.

 

Nigel

[smiles]

I have a problem with my alternator but mine isnt producing enough power. Car wont start i tried and tested the battery with multimeter and all seems ok. So tried disconnecting the possitive terminal on the battery after jump starting and cut out straight away. The alternator was checked while on the vehicle by a mate who is a mechanic and says its working fine but thinks it could be an alternator for a smaller engined sierra i.e 1.8 which therefor isnt producing enough power to start the car. Is this a possible problem or should all alternator work no matter what amps it is???

Thanks for any comments

[Snapperpaul]

All the starting power comes from the battery, alternator just provides running power and recharges the battery after the high load starting. Most hoods don't use much power, no electric windows, heaters, stereo etc. I use the smaller 55amp alternator and a small battery, the biggest difference I have made is to fit a geared high torque starter motor, the original Sierra starter struggled badly the new geared starter starts first time, every time with little effort.

The battery I thought was dead is now fully functioning.

Edited June 20, 2011 by Snapperpaul

[Guest Ian Maycock]

Thanks Nigel

 

I figured it was the alternator but wasnt certain. its alway good to get a second opinion. A trip to the scrapper it is then.

 

Iggy