5411 Alternator Woes

[Godefroy]

This past weekend, I learned my alternator was having issues when I got the low battery voltage alarm on my VHF command mic. Investigation revealed that a wire (the orange one that leads to the battery) had burned through.

Quick checks while underway was showing an output voltage off the alternator of ~16VDC, but a second check while inport (and not on a rocking boat) showed no voltage.

I'm going to go out on a limb and guess it's a bad alternator - does anyone know of a resource to rebuild or replace one? I have had no luck searching the part number out of the manual (a 55A model), though I have seen a few 51A models that are nominally equivalent; I am, however, reluctant to drop $600 on one that won't work with my boat, or if someone in the community knows a better resource.

Thanks!

 

[wonkodsane]

Find an automotive electrical rebuilder near you or do what this guy did [LINK].

 

[Windy City]

Here you go. Got mine from Torrensen Marine two years ago:

qty : 1, manufacturer: ARCO, part number : 60108, description : ARCO INBOARD ALTERNATOR, total price : 212.95
Billing information

Jim

 

[Twice Around]

godefroy,

I agree with wonko...take it to an alternator/electric motor shop first before you plunk down $$ on a new one. I am in Southern Maryland and around here, we take our electrical devices to the Mennonites.

 

[Godefroy]

Windy City: Huh. I didn't see that one on my initial check. Good to see lower cost ones are available. I admit that my knowledge of diesels is sorely lacking, and I'm still trying to get a good handle on what will properly interface with the existing engine. I presume since you posted that it works pretty well for you.

Twice Around/Wonkodsane: I will definately seek out a repair shop to see if they can fix this one, but it is good to know that a reasonably-priced alternative (replacement) exists.

Thanks!