Alt on its way out

[gtrippleb]

What's the easiest way to check the altenator to see if it's charging properly? Last weekend I went to start it after sitting for a day and it wouldn't turn over. All the electronics were dead. I didn't have time to check the batteries so I just replaced both batteries. I'd like to get the alt checked to see how it's working so was just wondering what the easiest way to check it would be. At idle after about 30 mins of running, both batteries are around 12.9-13.1 for volts. I have a hard time starting the truck as it takes about 3-4 turns before the engine will take. I had it in to ford for another issue, but didn't have time for them to check it out. Truck just turned 101K. It's been around 40 here and I've noticed that if it gets 40 or below, sometimes it takes a few tries to get the engine to crank.

 

[gtrippleb]

Anyone know where to get an alternator besides the dealership? I tried advance autoparts and they told me it was a ford part only. Called ford and they told me it was 306 bucks. Kind of expensive if you ask me.

Thanks

 

[Kleetus]

Anyone know where to get an alternator besides the dealership? I tried advance autoparts and they told me it was a ford part only. Called ford and they told me it was 306 bucks. Kind of expensive if you ask me.

Thanks

www.rockauto.com

Half price... well $187 anyway. I've ordered from them in the past dirt cheap and very good.

 

[gtrippleb]

Took it to Advance and they checked it, it checked good so I guess my 12v cooler is killing both batteries. I got the altenator back in but the belt was off about an 1/8th on the pully to the bottom right of the Alt. Took the alt back off and tried to put it back on again, now I messed up the right rear threads wear the bolt goes into, guess I should have left it alone and let the belt come off and tear the truck up so I could let ford come get it, been nothing but problems since I've had it.

Anyone know of an easy way to get the Alt. back on? It seems like the belt isn't on one of the pulleys now as when I get the Alt. where it should be, the belt is loose. Guess I'll just pull it to Ford and let them earn their money.

 

[architect-builder]

Did they say why it was getting so hot??? I think I might get a second opinion if I were you. Your simptoms (sp) sound identical to mine.

Barrett

 

[gtrippleb]

Anyone know what to torque the ALt. bolts to?

 

[TexasExcursion]

Anyone know what to torque the ALt. bolts to?

35 lb./ft as per DVD. Yer getting my moneys worth out of that DVD today! Good luck!