Thread: TD5 alternator woes

Hi,

So it appears my alternator has died. Warning light came on this morning, and stayed on. Managed to make it back home just on the battery.

My nanocom reads 12.3 volts with engine off, and drops down to 12 with the engine on.

I'm guessing that means its replacement time.

I can get a brand new replacement on ebay for $300 from Lanka Auto (I know I should get the genuine one, but as a uni student, it's hard to justify the cost of a genuine unit).

But my question is regarding the pulleys? Specifically the automatic adjuster, as the bearing needs changing. The tension aspect seems fine, as there's only a small of play (deflection?) in the belt. Like 1 to 2cm. I can get a dayco pulley for $50 (DAYCO TENSIONER PULLEY for LAND ROVER DEFENDER 2.5L 5CYL TD5 15P TURBO DIESEL | eBay), but the full unit is about $200.
Is just replacing the pulley a matter of simply removing the 15mm bolt, and putting the new tensioner on, or am I missing something?

Also air-conditioner and power steering pumps? How would one go about replacing the bearings in those pulleys? Do you just pull the front of it apart, and then go to a bearing shop?

My only other thought is that possibly the pulley on the alternator has seized, and that's why I'm getting absolutely no charge? Though, I still had brakes, which means the vacuum pump was still working?

Thanks for any help.

The parts are easily obtainable from just about any auto elec as the alternator shares most parts with Toyotas!
My original alternator failed because oil from the camshaft front plug had contaminated the brush pack which is pretty easy to replace, and it sounds like worn out brushes to me. Unless of course you find it doesn't turn or turns noisily.

I have kept and repaired my old one as a talisman to ensure the alternator knows its rightful place.

Regards Philip A