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Alternator Short?

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  #1  
Old 04-30-2007 | 04:07 PM
Lnghrn Disco's Avatar
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Default Alternator Short?

I read a post from January related to a guy with a battery that wouldn't keep charge. Disco Mike suggested that it might be a short in the alternator. Is this relatively common? I've done a little investigation of my own 95 Disco, and I think I have an alternator short. The battery drains down over the course of a day or so.

I tried to hook up an ampmeter in line with my battery and at the fuses, but my ampmeter fuse was fried (before I tried this), so I was out of luck. However, I could hear a distinct buzzing that sounded like it was coming from the alternator when the battery was connected. This buzzing went away immediately when I pulled the alternator fuse. It really seems like an alternator short, but I would appreciate some confirmation before I have my alternator rebuilt or buy a rebuilt alternator ($150-170 on eBay with shipping).

Thanks.
 
  #2  
Old 04-30-2007 | 07:13 PM
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Default RE: Alternator Short?

Wal Mart or most part stores should be able to test it for you.
 
  #3  
Old 05-03-2007 | 07:53 PM
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Default RE: Alternator Short?

Well, after hearing numerous horror stories about failing remanufactured Rover alternators, I decided to get a new alternator. RoverConnection.com has a new alternator for my D1 for $260 plus $15 shipping. Pretty impressive considering that most local shops were selling reman's for the same or more. It's supposed to arrive on Monday. I'll post my opinion of the aftermarket alternator after I finish the replacement.

Thanks for your help and the local contacts, Mike.

~donald
 
  #4  
Old 05-03-2007 | 11:20 PM
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Default RE: Alternator Short?

Good luck and make sure all your connections are clean when you hook up the new alternator.
Mike
 
  #5  
Old 05-08-2007 | 01:28 PM
Lnghrn Disco's Avatar
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Default RE: Alternator Short?

Well, I have the brand new alternator from Rover Connection.com in my 95 Disco. It seemed to fit and install with no problems. Drove the thing around the block a few times last night and drove it in to work this morning and ...

AAARGH! [:@]

Dead battery!

The alternator seemed to be charging the battery just fine after installation, so I don't know what gives. There is a check engine light that comes on when the battery voltage gets low, but I don't think that will give me any helpful info. I'm going to have the battery tested just in case, but I'm running out of ideas. Please help.
 
  #6  
Old 05-08-2007 | 03:08 PM
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Default RE: Alternator Short?

The check engine light won't help you, sounds like it is time to get it to a good Rover electrical mechanic.
Mike
 
  #7  
Old 05-08-2007 | 03:50 PM
Lnghrn Disco's Avatar
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Default RE: Alternator Short?

Oops.

I was in a panic needlessly. I assumed that something horrible had happened, but ...

The transmission was not fully shifted into park! [8D]Duh!

Thus, the car wouldn't start and the key would not release.

I'm an idiot ... but a very relieved idiot.

By the way the RoverConnection.com aftermarket alternator seems to be working beautifully.
 
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