Swapping alternator internals
Swapping alternator internals
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chriz1

Original Poster:

739 posts

245 months

Sunday 24th October 2021
quotequote all
The old alternator that was on my combo van used to charge a nice 14.5V but thr pulley seized so I got a cheap alternator to swap over. But this new cheap alternator is only charging at 13.5v

Which but of the alternator determines its charge output or amps.

I was planning on using the new pulley and putting it back on the old alternator but I damaged the threads..
Can I use the new core piece or shaft sorry don't know proper name (which has the cooling fans) and put that inside the old alternator or is it that piece that determines the charge output?

paintman

7,860 posts

220 months

Sunday 24th October 2021
quotequote all
That will be the the voltage regulator.

Will vary the current being delivered up to a maximum voltage.

From: http://www.alternator-parts.co.uk/

"Basic On Vehicle Charging System Tests

Test the vehicle battery using a load or capacity tester eg Bosch 121

A visual check with the engine stopped should be carried out to ensure the alternator is secure and drive belt correctly tensioned. Also check for oil ,fuel or coolant leaks which may have caused the alternator to fail.
Check all connections are tight and wires are in good condition.
Check all heat shields are in place .
A technician's quick check for a failed alternator on a basic vehicle charging system is to measure battery voltage with the engine off using a voltmeter. Start the engine and run at around 2000rpm whilst monitoring battery voltage which should have increased slightly if the alternator is charging the battery. B+ terminal voltage at the alternator should also be checked.

Typical battery voltage for a 12 volt system :
Engine off without residual load : 12.5 volts
Engine running at 2000 rpm : 13.2 to 14.6 volts at battery (regulated voltage)
Battery voltage indicated above 15 volts with the engine running on a standard 12v charging system often indicates a fault though vehicle manufacturers specification should be checked to verify.

Incorrect alternator output voltage ( alternator overcharging or undercharging ) can indicate a faulty voltage regulator. Incorrect alternator output voltage can affect sensitive vehicle computer control systems and related systems, for example erratic automatic transmission shift pattern."



Edited by paintman on Sunday 24th October 15:54

chriz1

Original Poster:

739 posts

245 months

Sunday 24th October 2021
quotequote all
Nice one thanks