Alternator woes

[ah_sprite]

Hi all
My alternator warning light is flickering when the car is running. When the car is started ,the light will go out for around 2 seconds, then begin to flicker. It's not affected by increasing engine speed.
I have a feeling the brushes are knackered - however, can this be caused by a bad connection somewhere?

Cheers
Richard

[ah_sprite]

Meant to also ask - if the alternator does need replacement, is there a better (and cheaper!) modern alternative that can be used, or are originals still commonly available at motor factors? The car is an S3, by the way.

[ncundy]

You can get them rebuilt by a competent auto electrician. Moving to a more modern one is definately feasable but if you go to one with a higher output you may need to upgrade parts of the wiring loom.

[lancialulu]

Auto electrician is best route. They will check and replace brushes and diode pack if necessary and new bearings. If Ducillier then bearings are non standard due to the narrower shaft.

I notice my alternator light glows on my sport at night (its dim so you cant really see in day light) but I know the thing is working /charging fine. I have assumed it is a poor earth (and on the list to sort one day) as it glows a bit brighter if the indicators are used.

Tim

[Neil]

I would recommend a rebuild by an expert, my Duceiller alternator on my S2 was rebuilt with new parts and now looks like new, they also tested the separate regulator box which I replaced many years ago and was fine.  the glowing light on the dash is usually a power earth, never sure if the that is the dashboard end or the lead that attached to the alternator or both, more like the dash I suspect.  Beefing up earth leads all round is probably a good idea anyway.