Alternator Archives - Import Car
Handling A Car That Won’t Start (Video)

Automatic start-stop systems are putting more stress on the starter and battery. Sponsored by The Group Training Academy.

Diagnosing A Faulty Alternator (Video)

There are a whole host of issues that could happen to an alternator. This video is sponsored by The Group Training Academy.

Modern Battery and Alternator Testing Methods

Old methods of testing a battery and alternator aren’t appropriate today. Do the job right to get the right results.

Prestolite Electric Announces New Alternator Line

The Arcade, New York, plant will produce a new line of Leece-Neville IdlePro Extreme 24V 600- and 680-amp alternators.

Alternator Altercations

Keep in mind, the alternator is not a battery charger so much as it is a battery maintainer.

VIDEO: Bearings On Timing Belt Components

Andrew Markel explores timing belt components and how the health of the bearings inside of these components is important to proper timing operation. Sponsored by INA, a Schaeffler brand.

Remy Adds New Part Numbers To Starter And Alternator Lines

New alternator part numbers have been added for domestic and import nameplate vehicles, including Ford F-150; Pontiac Vibe; Toyota Camry, Corolla, Matrix and Scion; Dodge Charger and Durango; Jeep Cherokee; and Ram. In addition, remanufactured alternator coverage has been added for Suzuki Grand Vitara.

VIDEO: Power Distribution From Alternator To Battery

Andrew Markel explains how the battery’s power from the alternator is distributed to the other electrical components. Sponsored by Nissan.

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Alternator Testing Diagnostics Are Getting More Complicated

One test is not enough if you are diagnosing a charging system problem. All too often, if only battery voltage is present with the engine running the alternator is condemned as the source of the problem. If this is the case, it means that the alternator is not charging, but does not reveal why.

VIDEO: Crankshaft Vibration And Belt Components

Andrew Markel reveals the details on crankshaft operation and how the power pulses cause vibration and stress on the belt and the components it is attached to. Sponsored by Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper.

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Computer-Controlled, ‘Smart’ Charging System Strategies: Why Volts Are Smart, But Amps Are Smarter

When diagnosing a charging system on any modern import, think “smart.” I learned this lesson several decades ago when repairing a cranking, no-start condition on a 1989 Honda Civic, which was equipped with one of the first “smart” charging systems. After verifying fuse continuity, I discovered that excessively high charging voltage had destroyed the Honda’s Engine Control Module (ECM).

Bosch Expands Braking, Starters, Alternators And Engine Air Filter Product Lines To Cover More Than 46M Vehicles

The new SKUs cover more than 46 million vehicles in operation in the U.S. and Canada, offering OE fit, form and function for select vehicles needing replacement engine air filters, starters, alternators or brake pads.