Is the alternator the source of the problem here?
QUESTIONS: Is the alternator the source of the problem here and thus needs to be replaced, or could the loose belt (compressor, I assume) or something else be causing the excessive ripple problem with the alternator? I just don’t want to replace the alternator and then still have electrical problems afterward because I missed the real problem.
Why does the alternator always have a ripple?
July 6, 2016, 1:25am #5. The alternator will always have some “ripple.” The battery acts as a buffer/accumulator and will absorb that ripple IF and only IF the charging circuit is well connected. That means the large cable and the alternator body itself as that is part of the circuit.
Why are there three phases in an alternator?
As Caddyman pointed out, the alternator is a three phase generator with a diode rectifier bridge. One of the reasons that three phases are generated is that the cosine of 60° is .5. That means that as one phase is 60° past its peak, the next phase is reaching 60° before its peak.
Why does my alternator squeal when I Turn on the AC?
The amount of ripple voltage you are seeing along with belt squeal indicates to me that you do indeed have a bad alternator. The ripple voltage should be less than .1 volt AC. The squeal is occuring because there is a problem with some the diodes and it is causing an excessive current load to the alternator.
How do you know when to replace an alternator?
Check for the correct belt tension. On an older engine with a V-belt, the belt should have no more than about 1/2″ of deflection in either direction. A few days after the job is complete, check the V-belt’s tension again and adjust if necessary. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
Can a transverse bolt be used to move an alternator?
Some alternators will have a transverse bolt that allows you to move the alternator fore-and-aft in the bracket to adjust belt tension. If not, you may need to use a cheater to keep the alternator in place and take slack out of the belt (an assistant can help here) as you tighten the mounting bolts.
Do you need memory saver for alternator replacement?
This is a job you can do, and the sooner you have your first alternator replacement under your belt, the sooner you’ll be back behind the wheel. Let’s get started. Before you start an alternator replacement job, use the memory saver to save your vehicle’s preset electronic info.
What to do if your alternator is rusting?
On many newer engines, the tensioner may be difficult to access. After loosening the tensioner, loosen and remove the belt. Inspect the tensioner while you have the belt off and make sure its roller still spins freely and isn’t rusted.