A vehicle’s alternator is a major component to consider when you experience vehicle troubles. Though relatively small, alternators account for the mechanical-turned-electrical energy needed to power various accessories, like headlights, power windows, radio, as well as your vehicles starter—the vehicles battery.
Parts
There are a few alternator parts that operators can fiddle with in order to determine what specifically is wrong. These include:
- The belt as it may be worn out.
- A defective battery that may be overexerting and depleting the alternator’s energy source.
- Poor quality brushes or bearings that may need a simple clean, or replacement.
- Faulty internal parts like, coil winding, stator, rotor, and cooling fan.
What about the diodes?
Another important aspect to consider is the alternator’s diodes, which can in turn affect the vehicle’s voltage performance. Diodes are responsible for converting alternating current (AC—what the alternator produces), into direct current (DC— which is what the vehicles battery and other electrical components run on). If the diodes do not function properly, the alternator will not work.
Signs and Symptoms of Problems with Your Alternator
If you’re in a time crunch, and wanting to identify the problem quickly, there are a few signs and symptoms that could help you rectify the issue earlier. There are various possible signs—from the noises, smells, and the flickering lights you hear, sniff, or see—that can give you a clue as to what specifically is wrong with your alternator. Let’s take a look at three signs right now.
SIGHT
- Carry out a visual check of your industrial vehicle’s alternator. The belt may be cracked, worn out, or damaged beyond repair and in need of a replacement.
- Determine the belts tension levels—is there enough? Is it too loose, too tight?
- Ensure when/if the belt needs replacement, that you buy the appropriate one for your vehicle (i.e. accessory belt or serpentine belt).
- You may notice your vehicles headlights or dashboard lights either flickering or both gradually and randomly becoming dimmer.
SOUND
- You may hear a growling, grinding, cracking, or whining noise. Depending on your foot’s weight on the highway, a particular noise may be louder or more subdued. This could be indicative of the alternator’s last working days.
- The sounds may persist due to an improper alignment of the pulley with the drive belt.
- Worn out bearings and/or bushings are also known to be the cause of rattling noises.
- A growling sound is an indicator of a faulty or failing diode
SMELL
- You may notice scents of burning rubber or even hot wires while driving to your destination. These smells are helpful in pinpointing alternator problems.
- The pulley may be improperly aligned on the belt, and may cause more friction than necessary. This typically is associated with the smell of burning rubber.
- Hot wire smells are generally linked with an overheated alternator due to consistent excessive load.
At Elreg we believe in working safely and efficiently. Whether you need a simple part replacement or a new alternator, come visit us for some expert advice. We promise to provide you with the best quality parts and satisfying customer service.