Replacement alternator?

[graciebrother]

Hi everyone,

I have a bit of an amateur question, but feel I'd rather ask it then spend money on the wrong parts and feels like a complete idiot. Here goes.

My explorer wouldn't start this morning. Couldn't even open the doors with the remote locking, when I got in, the battery was dead. The engine didn't even slightly turn. So I just got it jump started and checked the battery over with my multimeter. With the engine on it was reading about 13.4 which I believe is too low correct? I thought it had to be around 13.8-14.8. I also then went and put the lights on full beam expecting the voltage to go up and then drop again, but it dropped it didn't, it just dropped to 13.18.

When I looked at the battery level on the dash it was only at about 1/4 then slowly went up to just under half way up the dial.

So, to conclude, my alternator's on it's way out correct? I purchased the vehicle about 2 years ago and don't know the history of when things were changed if ever. I just phoned for a quote as was told $315CDN for refurbished or $366CDN new. Does that sound about right?

Thanks for your help in advance.

GB

 

[2000StreetRod]

Cheaper alternatives

My 2000 SOHC outputs about 14.3 volts with the stock 130 amp alternator. Have you checked/cleaned all of the electrical connections? Your alternator brushes may be worn down and no longer making good contact. According to my Haynes Manual you may be able to purchase and install a brush replacement assembly. I see salvaged 130 amp alternators advertised on eBay for $30. I believe the mounting is different for the OHV vs the SOHC.

 

[celly]

I believe the mounting is different for the OHV vs the SOHC.

Correct.

5.0L V8 and 4.0L V6 (SOHC) share alternators. 4.0L V6 (OHV) has a different application.

 

[graciebrother]

thanks well If it's the alternator and that's the cost of salvage, I think I will go down that route. I know there's an 99 sohc in my local yard so might head down and take a look. Do you know the part number for the sohc 130 amp? as I I think I read that some f150's will also have the same part.