How to avoid problems that may cause the alternator failure?

In internal combustion engine vehicles, the alternator is the main source of electricity. Therefore, it is important to know the weak points of the alternator, the causes of faults and how to maintain the unit so that it lasts a long time.

Common Generator Faults

First of all, the causes of malfunctions can be:

• constructive features of the unit and negative influence of the environment;
• overloading;
• incorrect operation and maintenance;
• interconnected components.

Generator weaknesses

• Collector-collector assembly - suffers more often on older cars, as the diameter of the alternator collector is larger than in the assemblies of modern cars. Also brushes rub against the surface of the contact rings, on which the contact has burned out.
• Running clutch - serves no more than 100 thousand kilometres.
• Digital voltage regulator - also not very durable and quite capricious element. It is repairable, but for diagnostics you need special equipment.
• Bearings - suffer if the drive belt is improperly (too much or too little) tensioned.
• The entire alternator (as strange as it may sound). The generator is “magnet” for corrosive substances: dust, moisture, reagents, technical fluids. The saddest thing is that corrosion puts the generator out of action irrevocably.  

How heavy loads affect generator life

The generator is subjected to high loads, mainly in winter - when it is charging the battery and generating power for other devices. At these times, the unit is working at its maximum capacity and consumes power much faster. If the load is too great, the generator will overheat.

Misuse and improper operation and maintenance

A typical mistake is to “light” another car while the engine is running on it. This situation equates to a short circuit.
Also often drivers who listen carefully and use the advice of “experienced” motorists, often check alternators on their modern cars by dropping the battery terminals or chirping wires from the alternator terminal on “mass”. Modern alternators cannot be checked in such a way! This is a direct way to replace the unit.

Influence of other vehicle components on alternator operation

The condition and operation of the alternator is directly related to the condition of the battery. That's why you need to keep an eye on the battery charge and check the battery regularly. Apart from voltage problems, the alternator is afraid of different substances that cause corrosion - water, dust, technical liquids, reagents. Therefore, it is worthwhile to timely eliminate leaks in the systems, the mains of which go above the generator. And if you decide to wash the engine, make sure that the master seals the starter and generator.

What should I do to keep my alternator running long?

• Monitor the condition of the battery at all times. If the battery is badly discharged, then charge it with special devices.
• Do not «cigarette lighter» with a running motor. It is better to use a special starting device.
• Timely undergo maintenance of the generator: check the condition of the belt, brushes, windings, etc. It is better to entrust this work to the experts.
• And do not engage in independent maintenance of the generator.
• Do not self-diagnose the alternator using “grandfatherly” methods.
• Continuously monitor the cleanliness of the under-hood space, eliminate leaks of technical fluids.
• Install additional bonnet seals and engine protection.