Repeated alternator failures

[mikeh]

This is probably just a case of getting an alternator from renparts that was on its way out, however I want to rule out the possibility.

Last year mine failed, it was smoking, smelt pretty bad - I think it was the regulator.

This morning, its happened again, less than 1000 miles (a year) later.

Is there anything I should be looking at?

I accidentally shorted the starter feed to the block with my ratchet when first undoing it (forgot to disconnect battery!) This isn't likely to have contributed considering the engine was off, is it?

 

[mikeh]

Had an auto-electrician look over the car today - no issues with the car and although not-repairable, he claims the alternator just died from wear :/

 

[rsRob]

Try the diagnostic method in this thread. The short shouldn't be an issue.

http://www.cliosport.net/forum/showthread.php?732510-low-battery-warning-light

I went through several alternators before working it out it wasn't the alternator.

Hope this helps.

 

[mikeh]

Thanks. I think it's a dead certainty it was the alternator after it was pouring with smoke lol.

Handy thread, though.

 

[rsRob]

haha - hope you get it fixed

 

[guysy]

You replaced the broken alternator with a second hand part and its failed again?

If that's the case probably a case of the 2nd hand alternator didn't have much life in it as well.