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Untamed · 01-21-2008, 11:21 AM

Once again the TA won't start. Since I traced the problem to low voltage from previous similar experiences, some time ago, I expected the same problem again. Sure enough, not enough cranking amps after running the car at low speeds a few times throughout 2007 around the storage place. After chasing the wires in a bunch of places with a volt meter and aligator clips, I can only conclude that the alternator is bad.

So now the question is: do I rebuild the one I have, or buy a new one? I've never rebuilt one before, and would like to learn how, but I don't want to sink money into the thing only to have to buy a new one anyway. How difficult is it for a person with some skill and smarts to do it? Are there any online guides you guys have used / recommend to help me? I searched on Google and came up with all kinds of guides, but they are all over the place with their directions. One clown put up a wiki that looked real hokey.

Is it worth it to rebuild the alternator, or is the cost of a rebuild kit almost as much as a referb'ed alt?

Thanks!

01-21-2008, 11:21 AM	#1
Untamed Join Date: Aug 2004 Location: Hillsborough, NJ Posts: 3,200 iTrader: (1)	Alternator: Rebuild or Buy New? Once again the TA won't start. Since I traced the problem to low voltage from previous similar experiences, some time ago, I expected the same problem again. Sure enough, not enough cranking amps after running the car at low speeds a few times throughout 2007 around the storage place. After chasing the wires in a bunch of places with a volt meter and aligator clips, I can only conclude that the alternator is bad. So now the question is: do I rebuild the one I have, or buy a new one? I've never rebuilt one before, and would like to learn how, but I don't want to sink money into the thing only to have to buy a new one anyway. How difficult is it for a person with some skill and smarts to do it? Are there any online guides you guys have used / recommend to help me? I searched on Google and came up with all kinds of guides, but they are all over the place with their directions. One clown put up a wiki that looked real hokey. Is it worth it to rebuild the alternator, or is the cost of a rebuild kit almost as much as a referb'ed alt? Thanks! __________________ I USED TO HAVE an 85 Camaro 305 4bbl, 90 Firebird V6, 97 Firebird V6 (10 speakers!). Despite the two family vehicles, 3 kids, wife and mortgage, I can finally realize the dream - 88 TA almost all stock... for now. http://www.cardomain.com/id/untameddave Wanted this - , but ended up with this - for free. Can't argue with free. Last edited by Untamed; 01-21-2008 at 12:18 PM.