Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) altenator shot +kdp fix

[MarlonPhillips]

Hello,I am new to the forum,some real good info here. I'm changing my alternator out and fixing the killer dowel pin at the same time. does anyone know were to get the best deal on a alternator and also should I use the rtv sealer on the timing housing or the gasket. and is there anything I should check out while I have it apart. Thanx guys. Marlon Phillips

 

[Dieselnut59]

Get the gasket and front crankshaft seal. It is a fairly easy job. Some people rave about the "KDP jig" that drills through the front housing. Personally, I say that is only a "half a$$ fix" because the front housing bolts have a habit of working loose also. I have tabbed two KDP's and inspected several others (that were already gone) and the bolts that hold the housing to the block were loose on all of them, wheather the dowel pin had come out or not. If any of the bolts were to come out, I would say it would cause as much or more damage than the KDP. Get the right parts, get (or make) a tab for the dowel pin and Locktite the bolts that hold the front housing to the block and do the job right. It will pay off in the long run.

 

[MarlonPhillips]

Thanks dieselnut,I have the kit to tab it,Ijust wondered if I should use a gasket rather than the rtv for a better seal Thanx

 

[Dieselnut59]

I always put a thin layer of RTV on both sides of a gasket. Makes it easier to remove in the future (and usually allows re-use of the gasket) and will also help to seal any imperfections that might be in the aluminum to steel mating surfaces. The gasket and front seal are CHEAP (don't remember the exact price) compared to a front housing bolt or KDP ruining your geartrain. Spend a little and save a lot, plus have the peace of mind of a job well done. Good luck!

 

[bmoeller]

Are you sure your alternator is shot? Check the alternator fuse in the Power Disribution Center (PDC) under the hood. It is attached with 2 screws. The PCM regulates the voltage. It will only show about 12v on a regular test stand.



I blew mine a while back. Arced it with a wrench by mistake.

 

[MarlonPhillips]

thanks guys I will check the fuze for sure. were is a good place to buy the alterntor.

 

[Dieselnut59]

With almost 200,000 miles on the truck (my 1996) and the original alternator has never been off, I would not consider anything but an OEM original to replace it with... Same for the starter. I don't have a clue, other than the dealer where to get the original new alternator, but you might try a truck shop that services medium/heavy trucks.