Alternator woes

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Dec 12, 2011 | 12:28 AM

EconolineFan

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Alternator woes

So I am returning home from a 600+ mile road trip and I smell this nasty electricity burning smell and my headlights and dash lights are getting dim and voltage gauge drops.

I pull into the gas station and notice a almost grinding like noise from underneath the hood? I am guessing it is the alt, am I correct? If so how difficult is it to replace on a 5.0 liter E150? I do not have money for a mechanic. Belt tensioner and serpentine belt are both a few months old. Thanks in advance.

Dec 12, 2011 | 06:20 AM

PStruwing

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From: Lakefield Ontario

Take the belt off and spin the alternator by hand,if it is grinding you will feel it. Then should only be a few wire and 2 bolts to remove and replace.

Dec 12, 2011 | 06:21 AM

EconolineFan

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Quote:

Originally Posted by PStruwing

Take the belt off and spin the alternator by hand,if it is grinding you will feel it. Then should only be a few wire and 2 bolts to remove and replace.

Thank you I will do that. Is it worth the money for the $250 Motorcraft alternator or are the $100 ones good too?

Dec 12, 2011 | 06:23 AM

PStruwing

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From: Lakefield Ontario

I have had good/bad luck with both. The guy at the parts counter will let you know the best route.

Dec 12, 2011 | 07:56 AM

JWA

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From: Reynoldsburg, Ohio

Just about two years ago I replaced mine with a new unit from NAPA, lifetime guarantee blah blah blah---cost just at $138 at the time. Rebuilt ran about $80 with a one or two year warranty--didn't seem that much more to go with the better part.

The original one lasted just at 235K or more miles-------not a bad life!

Dec 12, 2011 | 08:08 AM

EconolineFan

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I got to the alternator and removed the two bolts. And it won't budge. I tried beating it with a rubber mallet and prying it off with a flat head to no avail. What the heck? BTW I tried turning it by hand it turns over easily. I am want to remove it and have tested at the parts store.