I've run out of electricity!

dp bradford · Post by **dp bradford** » Mon Mar 17, 2008 1:33 pm

Same old story - both the Charge and Sediment lights came on whilst I was driving up to the Lake District on Saturday

I got as far as Langdale and stayed the night. Sunday morning everything started up as normal, except the two lights were still on...

Called in at Keswick, did a bit of shopping then discovered the battery was too flat to start the engine. I called the RAC and explained that the box full of electricity under the bonnet was empty

Chap came and poured some new electricity in, engine started straight away

Sadly the alternator was pronounced dead at the scene

I managed to get to Castlerigg Farm campsite which is a great place, and even better, I was able to get electric hook-up; using jump leads I managed to cross link both the engine and leisure batteries and give them both a good charge up.

This morning I drove home without incident. Gutted, as it was a beautiful morning in the Lakes, a fantastic day for a walk - I just didn't want to risk getting stuck there

(turns out my RAC cover didn't include full recovery - it does now! Read the small print....)

Ordered new alternator from LittleMovers - they've promised delivery tomorrow. I'm hoping it's as easy to fit as it appears - Top Tips on fitting anyone??? Here's hoping....

Dave

missfixit70 · Post by **missfixit70** » Mon Mar 17, 2008 1:47 pm

Don't forget to disconnect the battery

It took me about 15 minutes to take off the old, fit the new & get it up & running again

dead easy to get to, can't remember whether it's 2 or 3 bolts to undo. Do the belts need doing while you're at it? Just make sure you don't overtighten the belts & knacker the water pump.

dp bradford · Post by **dp bradford** » Mon Mar 17, 2008 3:17 pm

missfixit70 wrote:Don't forget to disconnect the battery .....

Thanks, I'll make sure that I disconnect

Dave

dp bradford · Post by **dp bradford** » Tue Mar 18, 2008 8:37 pm

LittleMovers came up trumps - the new alternator was waiting for me this evening. Well done to them.

Fitted in about three quarters of an hour - took me half of that to find the right spanners

Now working a treat

Dave

dp bradford · Post by **dp bradford** » Tue Mar 18, 2008 11:37 pm

missfixit70 wrote:... Do the belts need doing while you're at it? Just make sure you don't overtighten the belts & knacker the water pump.

Actually, now you mention it - how do I know the belts are at the right tension? I refitted the new alternator and made the belts feel about the same, but is there a definitive test??? Last thing I need now is another fault.... (see my up coming post regarding a noise from the rear diff / propshaft / wheelbearing

Dave