Squeaky alternator under load

[adam quantrill]

Looks like the bearings are making a racket when the lights and fan is on at the same time...

It's a standard Lucas one - has anyone replaced bearings (probably the front ones) on one of these?

I've already replaced the diode pack - it'll end up like Triggers Broom!

[RCK974X]

Actually, I had this problem once, and decided it was the front bearing, and believe or not, it turned out to be the fanbelt. Changing the bearing made no difference !

It sounds ridiculous, but the fanbelt was old and polished on the 'V', and was slipping just enough to squeek under load....

[adam quantrill]

Good point mine was nicked off the 350i and is 20 years old. I have a replacement in the boot and it needs adjusting anyway. Maybe it's just that that's slipping! I shall swap them over.

[adam quantrill]

Swapped over and the squeak has largely gone (just a hint when I got home), who would have thought the belt could make such a racket?!

Also fixed the occasional "death rattle" from under the bonnet which I think was the alternator shroud being a bit loose.

Thanks for the tip!

[adam quantrill]

The squeak is back - I might splash out and get a whole alternator off the flea (54 quid new) is ours an A127? And then open up the old one and replace any bits, to keep as a spare...

Actually looks like an A133 now I've found some old posts - but will an A127 fit too - they have a better (70A) current rating.

Edited by adam quantrill on Thursday 17th April 22:52

[Jack Valiant]

Fitted the 70A one to mine with the old pre serp engine and everything electrical just seemed to run better afterwards worth doing IMPO fella. My moto is do it once do it right!

Chris

[ElvisWedgely]

There is a place in Borhamwood called unit exchange. Google it. They rebuild starters, alternators etc. They also have exchange units. I've used them before. Excellent. Very helpfull and know their stuff. If that's too far for you look for a place similar nearer to you. Advantage of these places is that you can take your unit in. Whatever it is. They will test it and tell you the problem. Once I went there they told me my unit is fine. It was something else, so they are not money grabbers. They can rebuild your unit or exchange it for another off the shelf.

Tony.TCB.

[V8 Fettler]

I've used http://www.sandcelectrical.com/ for a non-TVR alternator and a non-TVR starter motor