2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Smoking Alternator - Good Rebuild Shop?

[analog]

So, I ran my truck down the street this evening, and smelled something like burning rubber. The check gauges light came on, and I saw that my voltmeter was all the way down to about 9 and dropping fast. I shut off and restarted and the meter went back up to about 13. 5. I ran back home, the smell persisted, so I popped the hood and noticed my alternator was smoking. The pully was turning, so it wasn't the belt smoking.



So, looks like I'm in the market for a new alternator or a good rebuild of my failing one. I'm checking into the Mean Green, but I need the truck next week. Anyone know of a good alternator rebuild shop in Tacoma, WA area?



I'm not keen on putting in a junk rebuilt unit from a local auto parts store.

 

[WestTN]

It sounds like your alternator is working. I would first check the intake heaters to see if they are shorted. The voltage recovery to 13. 5 ssays the alt is okay, but probably was overloaded severely.

 

[JoeBioDiesel]

If you smelled it burning and saw it smoking, I would bet that you smoked the rectifier. Have the alternator load tested and I bet it only puts out 2/3 of it's rated output. You'll need a carbon pile tester to do it, not one of those crappy benchtop units you see in the parts stores.

The good and bad news:

The rectifier and brush set are VERY easily replaced, but every time I've ever opened up a TurboDiesel alternator I found the rotor deeply grooved from brush wear.

My advice: Get it tested. If it flunks an alternator output test (because it's unlikely you'll find a Tech that can properly read an alternator ripple), then replace the alternator with a quality rebuild.

Joe

 

[analog]

thanks. . I'll find a place that can test it properly and go from there. Thanks for the info on the different types of tests. I would have just taken it to the local Schucks.