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Alternator failure? Forums > > Alternator failure? Alternator failure?
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Old 05-16-2013, 08:40 AM
rickystyx rickystyx is offline
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2002 Altima Sedan
 
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Default Alternator failure?

I think my alternator is failing. Yesterday morning I started hearing a whining-like sound that changes with RPM, and a weird rubbery/electric smell from under the hood. Any advice/experience would be apprecaited. 2002 Nissan Altima 4-cyl (2.5L).
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  #2  
Old 05-16-2013, 09:47 AM
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NissanTech NissanTech is offline
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It does sounds like a bad alternator. My advice is to have your local shop or the auto parts test how the alternator is charging. Usually the test is done for free.
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Old 05-17-2013, 09:06 AM
DCARLTON DCARLTON is offline
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I would almost bet that the alternator is fine and is probably generating enough voltage to charge your battery but an auto parts place can test it and tell you if it's okay.

My experience with this is that sound you here is clutch mechanism failing which will result in what is commonly known as belt-slapping, where the belt from the alternator down to the AC compressor will vibrate back and forth .

If this is the case, yes you can replace the pulley and clutch mechanism in the alternator but a good rebuilt alternator can be had at the parts store for not much more money. Either way, you have to remove the alternator, it just makes more sense to replace it.

I say all of this to let you know that if the parts house says the alternator is charging and soon afterwards you experience this belt slap issue, you know the alternator may be charging but is suffering another problem; one that many parts houses will miss.
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Old 05-17-2013, 12:13 PM
rickystyx rickystyx is offline
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Thanks, to both of you. I stopped by a local AutoZone and they verified the alternator isn't charging properly, so that's the first step I'll take. I'm having it replaced tomorrow (5/18) morning and hopefully remember to post a follow-up here.
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