Alternators and Starters

[profcucchi]

Good afternoon, Everyone.

Are the alternators and starters replaceable with domestics?

Shipping isn't so bad but the exchange rate is awful.

The battery is new, the lights turn on, and it makes that click-click noise.

I can probably boost the battery to get to my mechanic, but they likely need to be replaced.

Thanks,
Cucchi
Toronto

[kilrwail]

You might want to look for a reputable rebuilder - there are lots around and these things aren't rocket science.

[So Cal Mark]

if the battery is fully charged, I'd check and clean all of the battery to starter connections. It sounds like you have a voltage drop

[profcucchi]

I had the starter rebuilt about 18 months ago, and I'll go about cleaning everything.

It's seriously raining right now, so it sounds like a good time to do it.

Thanks, guys.

[DieselSpider]

Most major parts chains can get you a lifetime guaranteed re-manufactured starter or alternator for around $39 US at their local stores.

[131]

I had the starter rebuilt about 18 months ago

Either you have other issues, or I'd be going back to whoever rebuilt it and asking where they want it inserted.

[So Cal Mark]

"rebuilt" for $39, lol. Consider how many parts and how much time you can spend on a part and sell it for $39 with a profit. Typically, cheap "rebuilt" electrical parts have brushes replaced and that's about it

[spider2081]

Agree,
I purchased a 65 amp repaired/exchange alternator in 2003 for $65 and thought that was a good deal. In today's dollars I would expect to pay over $100 for same thing. The bearings in the alternator cost about $40. I think a good shop could repair/recondition an alternator in about 1 hour. In many parts of the country that alone would equate to $100 labor.

[DieselSpider]

"rebuilt" for $39, lol. Consider how many parts and how much time you can spend on a part and sell it for $39 with a profit. Typically, cheap "rebuilt" electrical parts have brushes replaced and that's about it

I am seeing re-manufactured starters for $39 with a lifetime replacement warranty for the 124 spider during regular specials at the local Oreilly and Advanced Auto Parts stores while regular prices for their lifetime units is $49.99 for the starter and $59.99 for the 55 amp alternator.

http://www.oreillyauto.com/site/c/searc ... rect=01920

http://www.oreillyauto.com/site/c/searc ... &make=Fiat

They are not available on-line however the stores seem to be able to get them within 24 hours most times and there are enough of those stores around the country that you are covered in most of the US if you need a warranty replacement.

My family use to rebuild starters and alternators for the local parts stores in batches of 100 to 200 and it can be done as a bulk process however a small time shop doing one at a time won't be able to compete. Parts stores have National Builders who do many thousands of units at a time so they can spread the cost especially when dealing with the large chain stores.

[profcucchi]

You guys are the best.

Looks like my battery was a bad batch from Canadian Tire. I've already replaced it once.

Starter is good, and the alternator is being looked at, but otherwise it's a battery issue.

Just out of curiosity, does anyone hook up a trickle charger when our cars are not in use for 3 or more days? Not winter storage, but just for a few days.

[DieselSpider]

I don't since I live in Florida and my car is driven at least every other day however I believe an automatic float capable charger is preferable to a fixed rate trickle charger.

Ensuring that the battery is filled properly using only distilled water will go a long way towards keeping it in good order. However do not add water to a battery when conditions are below freezing unless you are immediately going to put it on a charger so the water will circulate and mix with the electrolyte before it freezes.