Basically the 2001 Disco 2 has been sitting for a while. As soon as I connected the battery, the alternator smoked. While the alternator is removed, I can connect the battery and everything works fine.

1) Why would the alternator short out and start smoking?

2) If I fix this alternator will the same thing happen?



thanks

Dean

 

If you just replace the brushes/voltage regulator in the alternator maybe it will work. But if insulation on wires compromised, then problem could repeat. Salvage yards near me get about $29 for an alternator with a 30 day warranty. Also available new, pre-owned from fleaBay, and reputable dismantlers.

If going pre-owned have tested for free at parts store before installing.

The smoking part is most likely a failed voltage regulator, or a bad diode. Indy shop near me (shop manager drives a Rangie, always a good sign) does that for under $100. We have a few write ups on this site for alternator rebuild DIY.

Worst choice would be new from dealer. Next worse is reman from national chain parts stores, because of the high failure rate of Chinese reverse engineered parts. If going this route get the lifetime warranty and carry copy of receipt in truck, you never know where you'll be when it craps out. Mine lasted all of 2 weeks.

 

great advice...thanks

 

Get a brand new Bosch or Denso alternator from British Pacific.
About $350.
Never accept a rebuilt one.

If it smoked I would toss it.
If you have lots and lots of time - retired - rebuild it.
If you work - just replace it and move on.

 

Safe to say...it burned out (ba dum ching!)

 

Get a new Bosch from British Parts of Utah for $265.