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My alternator is rattling  Rating:  Rating
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 Posted: 05-01-2009 01:48 am
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andrewo
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My 74 is back on the road after almost 20 years. Since I bought it non-running, I had never heard it before a few days ago. I almost immediately noticed an annoying rattle from under the hood, and I think I have it narrowed down to the alternator, which despite the noise still seems to be generating good voltage.

Is this a common fault? Does it mean the bearings are going? Should I just get another alternator before it strands me?

Thanks.

Andrew

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 Posted: 05-01-2009 12:18 pm
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John Finch
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You've probably already done this but if not double check to make sure all three mounting bolts are (still) tight. Try putting a wood dowel or long screw driver on it then to your ear to make sure the sound is comming from it. Don't let your clothes get caught the belt! One of my mtg bolts worked loose and was rattling. Also had mine rebuilt for about $60.00 IIRC about 4 years ago. Quick turn around and so far no problems. Good luck!

John

Last edited on 05-01-2009 12:19 pm by John Finch

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 Posted: 05-01-2009 01:08 pm
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Brett Gibson JH5 20497
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Andrew, I have to agree with John, getting your alternator rebuilt is much better than buying a mass produced rebuilt, you know what condition yours is in, and the shop that usaully does the work is local to you, so you help the local economy, plus should you have any issues later you can just stop by and pay a visit.

Brett

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 Posted: 05-02-2009 02:59 am
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dwalls1
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I had the center of the fan break out on the Lucas Alternator on a TR7. Looked and worked OK, just weird noises.

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 Posted: 05-02-2009 03:04 am
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andrewo
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Well, I tried very hard to get it rebuilt locally, since it would have been faster, but several places have closed, and the one that has a good reputation wouldn't touch a Lucas. Go figure. I wound up ordering from Delta, and Jim was doing everything he could to get it to me by tomorrow. Keep your fingers crossed. Should be an easy job once it's here. I sure hope this is what it turns out to be, because if that rattle is anything else, it probably means something much worse.

Oh, and here's another weird symptom. When I turned on the lights on my way home tonight, the noise seemed to mostly go away for a bit, but then it came back.

Last edited on 05-02-2009 03:05 am by andrewo

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 Posted: 05-02-2009 11:05 am
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Jim Ketcham
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Disconnect the fan belt and run the car.  If the noise is still there than it is not the alternator.  If the noise goes away it is the alternator or the water pump.

Jim

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