Alternator repair/new?

[dickh]

Just collected my alternator from local auto repair shop, last week I noticed the tacho was not working until you revved hard and then noticed the charge light was on. Did all the usual checks to see if I had a loose wire etc but everything OK. It is a Lucas A127 55A with insulated return. Repairer had replaced the regulator and it says it runs OK; he did say that if the rectifier had gone that the rectifier pack/diodes are not available as spares!!
Is this right or can rectifier packs be repared by someone in the know? I know you can get new alternators (£400+) so the rectifier packs must be manufactured...
Anyway the repair only cost £32.90 so will fit tonight and hopefully should be OK.

 

[Chris_Robb]

Ring up Adverc - I had a 100 amp alternator (Prestolite an american automotiove alternator) for a £260.00 (I think)from them. Its been very good. However if you go up in amps from 50 to 100 you will need to replace the connecting cables as your existing ones will be severly overloaded if speced for 50 amps.

Tel: 01902 380494

 

[pvb]

High amp alternators...

Like you, I got a Prestolite/Leece Neville alternator from Adverc. Good units; high amps at low revs. However, I think that if possible it's necessary to upgrade the drive belt arrangement - ideally with twin belts once you get up to 100 amps or so.

 

[steve_cronin]

A company called \"Durite\"

used to make replacement regulators, bearings, brush sets and rectifiers for all Lucas & Bosch alternators and I have fitted many of them over the years when I used to help maintain the fleet in my father's business (I don't get involved anymore but have no reason to believe that this is no longer the case) You need to try the smaller specialist motor factors NOT the big Lucas-CAV boys. If your rectifier is a small array of plates about 45cm square with a ring of diodes connected to a star wheel contact then I even have one of those in my garage still!

Steve Cronin

 

[halcyon]

You have a diode gone, the field diodes drive the rev counter.
Have you tried LSUK (used to be Lucas ), they can repair, but they were offering me a new A`127 for around £70/80 with no exchange.
For ref the regulator brush assembly for that alternator is around £20, takes a minute to change.


Brian

 

[Chris_Robb]

Re: High amp alternators...

I am using a single belt arrangement. Yes there is some belt wear as shown by some black dust around, but I keep the belt tight (not overtight) and I don't think Iget any slippage, which would be noticed at startup when it s delivering in excess of 80 top 100 amps.

I always change the belt every year (£8.00) as it comes under the heading - its so cheap and quick - why not do it.

 

[dickh]

Re: A company called \"Durite\"

Thanks everyone for your input, I fitted the repaired alternator last night and the charge light went out, but no charge showing on the ammeter... noticed power went of when rotating main switch - removed, dismantled and found nothing wrong, reassembled, looked further and found a loose terminal on the ammeter.... tightened and everything works OK.
Lesson - check the simple things first...
I'll certainly make a note of this thread for future.
dickh