Alternator Question

Thread view:

Enable EMail Alerts

Start New Thread

Thread rating:

Ed - 18 Feb 2006 22:51 GMT

I have a question regarding alternators.

When an alternator is dying, is it possible for it to work on and off
until it finally dies?

I have posted this question in the SAAB forum as well, but I figured
may be a general question and I may have more luck getting an answer in
this group. For more info see my other post
(http://groups.google.com/group/alt.autos.saab/browse_thread/thread/9195a6af60af2e76)

Thanks!

Ed

Reply to this Message

xblazinlv - 19 Feb 2006 05:01 GMT

Yes it can somewhat work, often times dash lights will illuminate or
other strange electrical problems will occur while driving.

------------------------------------
Mike Mangione
http://www.carforums.net

Reply to this Message

Mike Romain - 19 Feb 2006 15:16 GMT

Not usually. It is possible, but usually intermittent power means a bad
connection or a slipping fan belt. One test is to take a cold off
engine and see if you can hand slip the alternator pulley. If you can,
the belt is shot. The alternator takes a few HP to spin up and if it
hand slips, it will slip intermittently while charging.

Mike
86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's
Canadian Off Road Trips Photos: Non members can still view!
Jan/06 http://www.imagestation.com/album/pictures.html?id=2115147590
(More Off Road album links at bottom of the view page)

> I have a question regarding alternators.
>
[quoted text clipped - 9 lines]
>
> Ed

Reply to this Message