Alternator diagnostics

[Ollyboy]

Hi all,

I'm looking for some advise regarding checks I can perform on the alternator/regulator. The charging light came on last night, and there was a slight hot electrical smell.....
Luckily we were a mile away from the house so we got home on the remaining battery charge. The voltage across the battery terminals is 12.5 V, with the engine running, and 12.7 V with the ignition off, so the the alternators not charging. Is there any further tests I can perform as it would be nice to have to only spend £9.50 on a new regulator rather than £70 on an alternator.

Also, the alternator I've got is 45 Amp - would a 65 Amp Alternator fit OK? I realise that a 90 amp requires a different bracket.

Many Thanks!

Oliver

[Fritz]

I'd be checking either the back of the clocks or the battery terminals to try to pin point where the 'HOT' burning smell has come from............Other than that ,check output of alternator from the terminals on the back of the unit as well as belt tension if you havn't all ready done this......

After that I would have to try replacing the regulator if for no other good reason than the price of a new alternator.


Regards


Fritz,,,,,,,,,,,,PS,and while you are at it have the battery tested just for piece of mind.....

[ghost123uk]

If it turns out you need an alternator, I have 2 spare (std) ones you can have for peanuts plus postage.

[VWCamperfan]

It is possible that you have snapped the alternator belt and the burning smell could have been the belt getting caught or rubbing on the main pulley.
Just a thought if you havn't checked it yet.

[Ollyboy]

Hi all,

Cheers for all the responses, it's much appreciated.

The burning smell was from the alternator itself, with the belt being OK. I've disconnected the battery to eliminate any spontaneous combustion issues.

Thanks for the kind offer of the used alternators Ghost123. I was seriously tempted, but I have plumped for a new 65 Amp unit from GSF - we have a couple of big trips planned this summer and the thought of breaking down again somewhere remote, with my wife saying "I told you to get a new alternator", isn't very inviting! I'm sure you understand

[ghost123uk]

the thought of breaking down again somewhere remote, with my wife saying "I told you to get a new alternator", isn't very inviting! I'm sure you understand

Too right I do - that's just the sort of comment my wife would come out with