I'm trying to decide if I should spend the $100+ for a new/remanufactured alternator or just rebuild my current one? There's nothing wrong with it (as far as I konw) and it was manufactured in 1994 (I'd assume that's when it was replaced, but I don't know for sure). Unless it's unadvisable to try rebuilding it (I've seen lots of info about rebuilding alternators on the internet), I'd like to give it a shot (unless the cost difference is negligible).

 

Well, if there is nothing wrong with it, then why rebuild it? I'd leave it alone.

If there is some reason to replace it, then you have to weigh your options;

1. The cost of a new one vs cost to rebuild

2. Your skill and tools available to rebuild vs replacing the entire thing

Its totally up to you.

 

They really are not that hard to rebuild, and alot of times all that needs replacing are the brushes and maybe the springs.

Schucks, Auto Zone, NAPA should have these availiable for like 10-20 bucks for the brushes.

 

[QUOTE=spandy;7113331]They really are not that hard to rebuild, and alot of times all that needs replacing are the brushes and maybe the springs.

Where could you buy the brushes and springs? I was told from my old teacher that the guys that rebuild alternators and starters n stuff, buy the rebuild parts in bulk

 

[QUOTE=initial D is REAL!;7114184]You have to buy in bulk for most any business. Does no good to order anything one at a time. I order window tint 1,500-2000 feet at a time in various sizes and shades, etc, same as a alternator shop has shelves to stock.

You probably won't be able to order just one set of brushes and whatnot from a distributor. Usually, they either have a minimum order, or you must be a regular vender to get them to send you one of something.

A parts house is your best bet, or just take it in to be rebuilt, but if you do that go to a starter/alternator specific repair shop. NAPA and the like rip you off, something that would of cost 40 bucks to fix at a specialty shop, they try and sell you a new one for 200 bones, and then all they do is rebuild your core and then sell that to some clown for 200 bucks. Most of the starters/alternators are rebuilds.

 

is it possible to upgrade an alternator to pump out higher amperages? i'd liek to have my S4 alt upgraded so i dont have to ghetto wire in an FD alternator.