My '03 Expedition with 65k sounds like the Alt is whining. Wife just called and said the dash lights are dimming. Must be the Alt. Should I just replace the whole thing or bearings and brushes. Have no idea how to do that, but with simple instruction I could probably do it. Thanks for any help.

 

dont bother just swap it out..

bring the bad one to the parts store and match it up..

they will want it for the core anyway

dont waste your time just get a new one

...zap!

 

Be sure that that you buy a good one, make sure that they bench test it before you install it. It's easy, you might need help to tighten up your belt...
This might be a good time to replace the belt because it is loose.

 

??? Tighten the belt? This ain't no v-belt son! Welcome to now.....we are talkin' about a serpentine belt, has an automatic tensioner....

 

Which then begs the question: "What shape is the belt tensioner in?" No, seriously, was that whine coming from the belt squealing because the tensioner spring broke and gravity isn't enough pressure to keep the belt tight on the pullies? Or was it from the the tensioner idler as its bearing was freezing up? In either case, did the belt get "thrown"; causing the alternator to stop charging and the battery dying, in turn causing the lights to dim?

Not trying to be a wise-a$$, both circumstances have actually happened to me; two different vehicles with the same result.

 

TEST, TEST, TEST!

Test the battery. It could have a bad cell causing the dimming and the alternator to work too hard.

You can test the alternator output too. Those suckers are expensive. When I bought mine, I bought the NEW unit. When/if it fails I return it for another new alternator, not a reman.

As far as the whining, check your belt and idler pulley.

 

yes you are right I have a serpentine belt and i needed help installing my new belt .......
I was just giving some pointers on how I did mine.......
We all need help sometime..........

 

Thanks for all the advice. I just ended up replacing the alternator. Real simple job. Belt was no problem. Thanks again.