Alternator

[Specialized]

Is it possible that a bad bearing would only show up at higher RPM's? with my 98 196 at idle to 2000 RPM all looks good. 2000 and above the belt starts to squeal and burn. took the belt off and the pulley seems to turn freely. This only seems to be a problem at higher RPM's. Wondering if its the alternator or if something is out of alignment. If it is the alternator is there a part number for one from an automotive store?

Thanks
Brian

[johnboyy7]

RE: Alternator

Is there anyway the belt is loose and the higher load is making it slip.

[Nautiquehunter]

RE: Alternator

The alt HAS to be a marine part. What kind of belt do you have? Is it a serpentine [flat ] or standard V belt?

[DanielC]

RE: Alternator

You may need to replace your belt, and then run it a little tighter. If your battery is discharged, it puts a heavier load on the alternator, and the belt.
If your belt was a little loose, and it slips, it wears the sides of the belt rather quickly.

[Specialized]

RE: Alternator

Thanks for the help. So I will probably need a new belt then make sure its tight enough and If I still have the problem I look for a new alternator.

Brian

[WakeSlayer]

RE: Alternator

Maybe the bracket is tweaked a little bit. If it were out of alignment by much, I would think that could cause the belt to squeal too. Do you have any black dust near or below the alternator? LIke Nautiquehunter stated, if you replace, you HAVE to use a marine alternator.

[Specialized]

RE: Alternator

Yes there is black dust everywhere around the Alternator pulley. I believe the belt was loose this makes since. I will replace the belts and go from there. Thanks for all the help. I'm not sure how old the belts are so its a good maint. item anyway.

[bobchris]

RE: Alternator

the bearing isn't the problem, either the belt is shot and needs replaced or the tension isn't correct.

So first you need to tighten the belt if it's a V-belt, if it is a serpentine belt then you need to look at the tensioner and see if the arrow is within the marks for the proper tension if it's not then you need to replace the belt and/or tensioner too.

to test for proper tension grab the fan on the alternator and try and rotate it if it rotates then your tension isn't tight enough or the tensioner is shot. Not sure what type belt you have.