Alternator replacing options

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mike artemis

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Time has come to replace an alternator on my Fairline Targa 34, Kad 44's and I have seen loads of discussion on ere about what you can and can't fit.

I would be really grateful for some advice on best to fit, should it be standard Volvo Penta or or there other options?

Also what price should I be looking to pay as boat is in Gib and I have been told the local agents charge a fortune so am thinking maybe best to ship over from the UK???

Any advice very glady received

Thanks
 
Firstly, Volvo don't make alternators or starters etc. Usually Bosch or Valeo. You could start with going to a motor factor with yours to match it up. A better alternative would be a unit from the likes of Stirling power - much more powerfull and more amps at lower revs. And it will be a new unit not recon.
 
Alternator replacement

As said if you find that your usually engine running period is not keeping the batteries charged or you tend to run the engine just to charge the batteries then you should be going for the smart or stepped charge option on your alternator. This could be most conveniently done by buying an alternator and charge regulator as a package.
If you don't need to go this route and ordinary engine running or charging from a mains charger suits you then all you need is a replacement. Motor wreckers are the cheapest best source. You need firstly to find the same kind of mounting lugs and secondly the same size pulley. You may be able to remove the pulley from the old alternator if this is a problem.
However it may be cheaper simpler to have the old alternator overhauled by an auto electrical shop. good luck olewill
 
mike artemis said:
Time has come to replace an alternator on my Fairline Targa 34, Kad 44's and I have seen loads of discussion on ere about what you can and can't fit.

I would be really grateful for some advice on best to fit, should it be standard Volvo Penta or or there other options?

Also what price should I be looking to pay as boat is in Gib and I have been told the local agents charge a fortune so am thinking maybe best to ship over from the UK???

Any advice very glady received

Thanks
Click to expand...
First a don't, buy a Volvo marked part.

Most modern alternators are a standard size, made by Magnetti-Marechal (Lucas), Valeo or Bosch.
You can also get some extremely cheap aftermarket ones.

Take it along to the nearest auto electrician and get hime to find a like-for-like size, cost new from a major £120-150 for a 100amp rated unit. Aftermarket manufacturers £70-90.

Before the drivelling about "marine alternators" starts, these are a conventional auto alternator, double insulated and with stainless rather than conventional bearings.

If as suggested you want to buy a package, including a smart controller, get in touch with Adverc at Wolverhampton or, if you prefer to pay more, have snake-oil added and are into masochism, Sterling.
 
thanks for the info

ok thanks for the posts guys, I will investigate getting it reconditioned in teh first place and then will look at an alternative if this doesnt work or isnt possible. Charging wise its fine from shore power or when running so dont think I need a smart system, just an alternator hopefully.

Thanks again
 
Suggest you visit Donovan Auto Electric's website at www.auto.electrics.co.uk
They are agents for all popular alternators starters and Dynastarts and will despatch to foreign parts. I bought my replacement Bosch Alternator straight from the shelf at 2/3rds of the price of the Volvo badged one. Select' Marine'to see the various ones they can offer new or reconditioned.They are located in Botley ,Hants so would be OK if you are Portsmouth/southampton Areas for personal collection.

No connection ( a very useful contact for those older starter/generators(Dynastarts) for the older Volvo owners information.)

ianat182
 
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