Alternator Workshop

[Dave Bradford]

I have started having alternator problems. This is indicated as the error message "Alternator Workshop" and the battery lamp comes on.

 

The alternator looks fine, belt turning, no noise, no smells & no unexpected heat.

 

Today I took a voltage reading of the battery & noted that when I start the engine the reading does not rise to an expected 13.5v, it drops a little down to 12.1v.

 

This indicates to me that the alternator is not working.

 

The next test I did was to tap/hit the alternator with an adjustable spanner. This had the effect of hearing the engine go under load (whine down) and the battery voltage to jump upto 13.5v. Now charging and the battery lamp on the dash board goes off.

 

To me this suggests that the alternator brushes are coming to the end of their life & need changing out.

 

Is this possible on the Galaxy alternator? Can the brushes be replaced or am I jumping to the wrong conclussions.

 

Thanks for any help.

[seatkid]

AFAIK you can change the regulator/brush pack in most alternators. You have to remove the plastic end cap to gain access and its usually held in by one or two screws/bolts. You dont have to remove the alternator. There are specialists on the interweb that can supply replacement packs considerably cheaper than the dealer (although check first - you may be surprised)

[Dave Bradford]

Does anyone know the address or name of one of the internet suppliers?

 

I've just popped down to the Ford garage to be told that brushes cannot be bought as seperate items and that an alternator will cost me

[seatkid]

Maybe try these people

 

Check using the original Bosch number stamped on your alternator to find the correct regulator

 

e.g it might be this regulator (or then again it might not!)

[Willie Krashitt]

The brush pack is available at VW dealers and isn't stupidly expensive. OK if you have a diesel or V6. Not sure if the 2.0/2.3 Ford engines use the same alternator or not.

George.