Alternator problem
Thread Starter
Pit Crew
Joined: Jun 2013
Posts: 103
Likes: 5
From: ca
Alternator problem
Once in awhile if I drive my 2001 es300 in city, turning off and starting from store to store, the alternator quits charging at full. Let it cool for half hour or so, then charges as it should! Using voltmeter. Drops to 11.75 ish when not working right. After cooling, above 13.5 or so.
Thread Starter
Pit Crew
Joined: Jun 2013
Posts: 103
Likes: 5
From: ca
Sad part is that alternator is about a year old from local auto parts store. Guess I have to time it just right to have them test when charging is low. No way to check that problem otherwise is there?
Pole Position
Joined: Dec 2013
Posts: 3,466
Likes: 920
From: wa
This sounds common for auto parts store alternators. The voltage regulators are often poor quality and fail. Take it in when hot and they have a clamp-on tool for diagnosis. Of course, you will get the same poor quality oart as a replacement. You could get a good VR and install it, of course. Replace it soon to reduce the battery damage and possible electronics damage a bad VR can cause.
Intermediate
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 288
Likes: 30
From: Maryland
Napa has *very good* reputable alternators. They are a bit more pricey, but that comes with quality.
Last edited by wmj259; Aug 18, 2018 at 08:53 PM. Reason: spelling "very good" instead of "week"
Pole Position
Joined: Dec 2013
Posts: 3,466
Likes: 920
From: wa
Last time this came up, I bought the VR and some brushes and a bearing from RE Auto electric in Tacoma, WA. it was maybe $75, mostly the VR, and rebuilt it myself. They do mail order.
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