Can a rebuilt alternator be installed in a Porsche?
Shown here is a brand new rebuilt alternator. Unlike older-style Porsche alternators, this one is pretty much plug-and-play. The regulator is internal, and the alternator should come with the proper pulley installed on the front.
When does a Porsche Boxster alternator go bad?
If the voltage measured at the battery is more than 16 or 17 volts when the engine is running, then the regulator is probably bad. If your battery has boiled over and has acid overflowing out the top, make sure that you clean up any spilled acid immediately.
What happens to an alternator if the battery is shot?
If the battery is shot it’s a risk, but of the battery is good and the lights were left on, it should recharge without incident to the alternator. I suspect that while the initial load on the alternator of any drained battery is high, a good battery will charge and the load to the alternator will go rapidly enough that there should be no damage.
What should I do if my alternator fails?
If the battery is fairly new you will need to start the engine by jump starting or charging the battery using a battery charger. Once the engine is running test the alternator in the charging system. If the alternator fails, replace it with a new or rebuilt unit and re-test system, if the alternator tests ok proceed to the next step.
When to replace an alternator in a Porsche?
The first thing that you need to do is to make sure that your alternator is indeed the cause of the problems with your charging system. Sometimes bizarre electrical problems can be caused by a number of faults other than the alternator. It’s important to troubleshoot the system prior to replacing your alternator.
Why does my Porsche Boxster alternator leak acid?
If your battery appears to be leaking, then your alternator’s voltage regulator has probably failed. The battery will usually only leak acid if it has been overcharged at a much higher voltage. If the voltage measured at the battery is more than 16 or 17 volts when the engine is running, then the regulator is probably bad.
What should the battery drain be on a Porsche?
We normally say a drain of 0.25A is the upper limit and should give about 2 weeks life on a fully charged battery. Alternator voltage, measured at the battery, is normally between 13.25 and 14.5V, depending on health of alternator and associated wiring. We use a clamp in the earth lead to measure current.
Can a bad alternator cause a car to start?
A properly-functioning alternator will show above 14V while running. They could be damaged, causing symptoms that look like a bad alternator. It is a very common and very well-documented issue in early 997’s. The alternator to starter motor cable isn’t quite heavy-duty enough and can corrode internally or even melt.