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I've run out of electricity!

Posted: Mon Mar 17, 2008 1:33 pm
by dp bradford
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 :roll:

Chap came and poured some new electricity in, engine started straight away :D Sadly the alternator was pronounced dead at the scene :x

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 :x :x (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

Posted: Mon Mar 17, 2008 1:47 pm
by missfixit70
Don't forget to disconnect the battery :wink: It took me about 15 minutes to take off the old, fit the new & get it up & running again :D 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.

Posted: Mon Mar 17, 2008 3:17 pm
by dp bradford
missfixit70 wrote:Don't forget to disconnect the battery .....
Thanks, I'll make sure that I disconnect :)

Dave

Posted: Tue Mar 18, 2008 8:37 pm
by dp bradford
:D

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 :oops:

Now working a treat 8)

Dave

Posted: Tue Mar 18, 2008 11:37 pm
by dp bradford
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 :x :x :x

Dave