Alternator rebuild questions

Jeff · 01:41 PM

I have done searches on rebuilding my alternator and have not found any articles on doing this myself. Is it possible or worth while to do it myself?
Seems that most are taking their alternator to a shop to have it rebuilt. If this is the "way to go", can someone tell me what I should make sure is done during rebuild? Is the regulator replaced during the rebuild?

Thanks in advance

Glasgow 911SC · Glasgow 911SC's Garage

I replaced the VR and turned the comutator ring as it had grooved slightly. Definately worth while as my voltage was fluctuating and boling the battery. While it was apart I powder coated the fan and its housing.

boyt911sc · boyt911sc's Garage

Jeff,
If you know how to rebuild your alternator go ahead do it. Taking your unit to a reputable electrical shop is another way. They should be able to fix your VR and diagnose the problem. A well rebuilt alternator should last several years of use and depends a lot on the quality of the work.

When an alternator has been rebuilt once, rebuilding it again may not be wise or econimical at all. Efficiency of rebuilt alternators decreases over time so spending $$$ for another rebuilt must be taken into consideration over a new unit.

Once the alternator shows sign of deterioration, next thing you know the car is inoperable. Just my two-cents.....

stealthn · 01-28-2003, 07:01 PM

Take it in, it's cheap. I found a good "small" shop that looked like it could use some work.
Got new brushed, bearings, cleaned and refurbed the contact area thingy.

If you take it in keep the shaft bolt and key (small metal insert that goes in the shaft) so the shop won't loose them.

As well they will want to test it show you will need the pulley half..

Should be good for another 100K

Wil Ferch · 01-29-2003, 08:54 AM

Look at my alternator / volatage regulator replace & repair article....Pelican Tech section. also in Rennlist.
---Wil Ferch

Jeff · 01-29-2003, 09:38 AM

Thanks for the info guys.

Wil I have read your article. Very informative and will be at my side when I am removing the alternator.

My neighbor is an electrician and car guy, and believes we can rebuild it ourselves (He has rebuilt starters and alternators before, but mostly American Iron). I plan to remove the alternator and take a look first.

Is there anyone out there who has rebuilt theirs and can tell me what to look out for/replace? Is there a "Rebuild kit" available? Should I replace the regulator while I'm in there?