What destroys an alternator? - Third Generation F-Body Message Boards

squirrels · 08-24-2001, 06:08 PM

I posted previously about an electrical problem I thought was attributed to my choke relay. Apparently, it wasn't getting enough power, and neither was anything else because my alternator is fragged. If I look in the back of the unit, I can see 3 little circular things, I'm guessing they're the rectifier diodes. two are healthy looking, the other's white & singed.

What could've caused this? I know that when they replaced my muffler pipe, Meinekie did a little minor welding to the frame to support the pipe. If the alt was connected would this've fried it? How long would it take to notice? What else could've done this? I don't want to get another alt and have it get fried too.

Thanks
Mark

Stuart Moss · 08-24-2001, 09:10 PM

IMO, the number one reason CS-130 alternators fail is due to excessive heat. This is generally accepted as a design flaw which subsequent alternators addressed by incorporating better cooling methods.

Lord only know's what happend to yours. Very limited information was presented.

[This message has been edited by Stuart Moss (edited August 24, 2001).]