by statesman on Mon, 23 Jul 2012 4:56 +0000
Ok news just in! I ended up pulling the alternator out after replacing all belts to no avail and took it to 3 different auto elecs. I did feel there was some grit or grime in the bearings due to a slight noise coming from the alternator when I spun the pulleys. First auto elec said that it was more than likely still the belts, the second said repair of alternator would be $500, due to it being labour intensive and would be better of buying a new one from him for around $600, the third said he would open it up replace bearings and bushes test it and this would hit me in the back pocket to the tune of, wait for it......... $70!!!!
Needless to say I went with option 3. When the Mrs picked it up and brought it home, he had the apprentice clean and paint the cover whilst he repaired the bearings and put new brushes in. He ziptied the faulty parts to the now revived alternator after doing a ampage check too. One of the bearings was so worn it had severed one half of the casing and the other side of the internal casing was all but worn through. Amazed at the service he provided and am disgusted at the dollar chasing scum that had no real intension of doing their job. For the good mechanics out there that show an honest Australian nature of integrity I salute you. As for the gaggle of bums that aren't fit to green slip a rig, you are the reason I trust few with my pride and joy! The Lux is now growling like a tiger and ready to hit the beach.