Alternator
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 2,764
Likes: 138
From: cyberspace NY
Alternator
I have an 89 TPI motor that has the common Alternator problem. Also I have the same problem in my 95 chevy van.
After replacing alternantors toooooo many times, I have grounded my alternators to the frame and intake manifold. I used them fancy ground straps from the HELP section. I havn't had any problems since, but it really hasn't been too long either.
Did anyone determine if additional grounding really helps.
After replacing alternantors toooooo many times, I have grounded my alternators to the frame and intake manifold. I used them fancy ground straps from the HELP section. I havn't had any problems since, but it really hasn't been too long either.
Did anyone determine if additional grounding really helps.
Team Owner
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 54,124
Likes: 30
From: Cincinnati, Oh USA
The alternator is grounded through contact of its frame to the mounting brackets, connecting yet another ground won't make any difference. And even if the mounting brackets offer a poor ground, this would reduce the charging current delivered by the alternator and it would run cooler as a result. It is heat that reduces the life of the alternator.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 7,839
Likes: 22
From: San Diego, Ca
I agree with JFB.
The number of alternators I've rebuilt or replaced in my GM vehicles (since '73) would take up a couple of pages, though A/C Delco replacements seem to last the longest. Make sure your Vette's battery is fully charged.
The number of alternators I've rebuilt or replaced in my GM vehicles (since '73) would take up a couple of pages, though A/C Delco replacements seem to last the longest. Make sure your Vette's battery is fully charged.
Drifting
Joined: May 1999
Posts: 1,478
Likes: 3
From: Sacramento, CA Money can't buy happiness - but it's more comfortable to cry in a Corvette than a Yugo.
The C4 alternator was never meant to charge a heavily depleted battery. If you let the car sit for any extended time without a float charger on the battery it will cause early alternator failure. The high heat temps of the C4 under the hood also contribute to alternator failures.
Usually the alternator windings are fine, but the heat and load cause the diode bridge to fail. Take your alternator to an alternator/electrical motor rebuild shop and ask for a heavy duty diode kit to be installed. When you see the difference between the default diodes/heat sink combo and the heavy duty kit that is available you will know why it is worth it to have your alternator rebuilt. Seven + years on my AC-Delco.
Usually the alternator windings are fine, but the heat and load cause the diode bridge to fail. Take your alternator to an alternator/electrical motor rebuild shop and ask for a heavy duty diode kit to be installed. When you see the difference between the default diodes/heat sink combo and the heavy duty kit that is available you will know why it is worth it to have your alternator rebuilt. Seven + years on my AC-Delco.
