Auto Alternator

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Auto Alternator




I have a Lucas marine alternator. I suspect its faulty. If that is the case when professionaly tested, MUST I replace it with a marine one or will a much cheaper automotive one do.

The auto electrician who has just had a quick look at the Lucas spotted that the connectors are slightly different and suggested a slight rewire with a link to the starter motor. Very confusing.

I suppose Im just trying to save a bit of money really, though its my nature not to spend if I dont have to!



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[VicMallows]

I have used car alternators (£5 - £15 from breakers yards) for years ever since the original so-called marine one fitted to the engine gave up after 3 years due to salt-water corrosion!. When you think of it, in many cars the alternator is within inches of the wet, mybe salted, road. You can even afford to carry a spare at that price!

Connections do change a bit, and if existing one uses a plug connection you may have to change it, but should be fairly self evident to anyone used to car electrics.
A car one will be machine sensed rather than battery sensed.... but most ones fitted as standard to small boat engines are too, and modification is possible, though can be tricky


Vic

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[bdsweeting]

I agree with your concern over costs.

My only comment would be that a 'marine' electrical product should be spark free for use within petrol driven engine rooms.

However, if yours is diesel then that shouldn't be such a problem.

<hr width=100% size=1>Brian

 

[oldharry]

I beleive the only difference between 'marine' and 'auto' alternators is in the materials used - brass and stainless rather than mild steel. In practice it doesnt seem to make much difference before things start going wrong, as brass corrodes to cause faulty connections almost quicker than steel. And its nearly always bad connections that cause an alt to fail before its time. In any case auto alts live in much harsher condtions than the average boat installation.

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[jollyjacktar]

Go for the cheap alternator from the wreckers yard, carry a good spare or two. You will pay for the second hand parts with the savings on repair bills to your own "marine" version.

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[brianrunyard]

I've always used car alternators. I strip it down, paint the ally casing, and they last as long as a so called marine one.

<hr width=100% size=1>Brian
http://homepage.ntlworld.com/brunyard

 

[fiddle]

Thank you all. I will go down the auto route.



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