Alternator removal!

[kennyfin73]

Anybody removed or have info about removing an alternator. Cant get it out, am guessing I may have to take out the radiator! Must be an easier way surely!

[Steamyrotter]

Its a manifold off job minimum.

Whats the issue?
It could just need a regulator change which can be done in situ.:-
http://xdrivers.co.uk/forum/index.php/t ... #msg126471

[kennyfin73]

Not charging battery. Doesn't sound to healthy and nearing 180k miles prob be best to change out whole unit. Having taken off belts and checked alt it seems to be smooth enough, unless noise coming from worn bushes in regulator.

[henrym3]

Having just read Steamyrotter's article surely it's got to be worth trying his solution if only about £22. I never see above 13.6/7v coming from my alternator, should I be worried.

[Steamyrotter]

13.6/7 is OK depending where you measure it!!

ideally you want 14 - 14.2 at the under bonnet charging points as it is a long way to the battery..
And the high charging current will cause a volt drop along that cable.

[henrym3]

That's the voltage that shows up on the OBC


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[Smeeagain]

So where does the OBC take it's reading from ?
Smee

[henrym3]

Not got a clue but would assume it is from somewhere that gives an accurate reading of alternator output. There again one should never assume.

[Steamyrotter]

unfortunately the OBD is not the most accurate measurement.

You need to use a decent multimeter on the charging points

[dark_stranger]

You don't need to take the manifold off, I replaced my alternator when I first got the car and you need to remove the fan, but once that is off it comes out.  I had to buy a special tool (£20'ish) that holds the fan clutch/motor whilst you undo it.

[kennyfin73]

It was necessary to remove the radiator to get the alternator out!! Lets hope the O rings on the hoses seal again. Anybody know the sizes of these?

[henrym3]

Any time I've had them off I've very lightly greased them with either vaseline or silicone grease so they slide back on easily and never had a problem with them leaking 

[kennyfin73]

Job all done with no leaks at cooling hoses.

Ordered a STARK (£50) alternator and a Valeo came. Guessing its a refurb unit but none the less it is in very good condition. Replace gearbox oil cooler as well as noticed some oil weeping from oil side of cooler.