[Public-List] A4 alternators

[crufone at comcast.net]

Hi Gord, 

Many folks don't know that alternators have slip rings with brushes similar to the commu tator and brushes on a generator.  As the alternator brushes wear down they tend to cock sideways in the brush box and the spring tension is overcome by the friction against the box housing so the brushes do not make proper contact with the slip rings.  This is a very simple fix and along with  bad bearings the most common cause for alternators not producing to specification. 



As others have suggested have a load test done on fully charged batteries, then pull the alternator and inspect the brushes. You can always take the unit to an auto electric shop to run on a bench to check out put.  This service is normally free. 



I helped a neighbor with his auto alternator and he was pleased to find that $8.00 worth of brushes did the trick. 



Michael 
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Gordon Laco" <mainstay at csolve.net> 
To: "Alberg 30 Public List -- open to all" <public-list at lists.alberg30.org> 
Sent: Sunday, July 26, 2009 6:22:34 PM GMT -05:00 US/Canada Eastern 
Subject: [Public-List] A4 alternators 

Hello shipmates, 

I have come to the conclusion that my Atomic IV's alternator is dying 
slowly.  It is still pumping juice back the to batteries but the flow is now 
only very slightly positive.  I think I had better formulate a plan before 
it dies altogether on my some time...like on this year's Misery Trip. 

I imagine my options are to either get my existing one rebuilt, or purchase 
a new one from Moyer.  Anybody got any advice? 

Gord #426 

PS Bruno and Elise aboard HERON were just here on their way by - we had a 
great dinner with them and visited on each other's boats.  They are hoping 
to join us at HIRC at Hope Island 14-16 Aug. 

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