9.2.2. servicing

9.2.2. SERVICING

Overhaul and checking of the alternator is best entrusted to a specialist or dealer who will have available the special equipment necessary. It is recommended that the owner should not use test instruments on the unit unless he is familiar with the procedures and precautions necessary. Incorrect application of meters and test equipment can quite easily cause damage to the diodes.

The alternator bearings are pre-lubricated and require no routine maintenance. The brushes should be inspected after a high mileage has been covered and can be replaced if necessary. It should, however, be noted that the brush life can be expected to be quite long under normal conditions.

9.2.3 ALTERNATOR MAINTENANCE

Periodically wipe away any dirt or grease which has accumulated on the outside of the alternator. If a water hose is used to clean the outside of the engine, cover the alternator to prevent water from entering. Check the security of the electrical cable connections on the alternator. The tension of the alternator drive belt should be checked at regular intervals. Refer to Section 9.2.5.

Take extreme care when connecting the battery leads to the battery — positive to positive and negative to negative.

9.2.4 REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION

• Disconnect the battery negative cable, followed by the positive cable.
• Note the location of the alternator supply wires and disconnect them from the rear cover.
• Loosen the adjustment and pivot bolts, swivel the alternator towards the engine and remove the drive belt from the pulley.
• Support the alternator and unscrew the adjustment and pivot bolts. Lift the alternator carefully from the vehicle.

The installation of the alternator is a reversal of the removal procedure. Tension the alternator drive belt as described in Section 9.2.5.

9.2.5 DRIVE BELT TENSION

The alternator drive belt should always be kept at the proper tension. Alternators rotate at high speed and the belt tension is important for proper operation. The first sign of a slipping fan belt is a squealing noise during sudden acceleration

Fig. 9.1. — Details of the alternator belt adjustment, shown on a typical installation. Check the tension at the point shown by the arrow.