I want one of those stethoscopes. That would be a neat little gadget to have.

The DP alternators are supposed to have a beefed up (or at least better) rear bearing. Looks like the weak spot has now moved to the front. Keep in mind this is a 160-amp with a smaller pulley (overdrive) and beefed up diodes. Spinning faster than a 105.

Let me wipe the dust off this post. I think I found the problem. Noticed it today. Here'* a pic:



Can you see the problem, and imagine the consequences? Even after resolving it, what damage may (almost certainly) have occurred?

Put your thinking caps on.

Well besides the gum on the belt

I would have to say the loose bolt on the top of the alternator is bad news, the threads are visible.

Misalignment, geez, if that bolt failed it would split right apart! is this common??

We have a winner! And it causes a misalignment between the front and rear case halves.....and the 2 bearings. Destroying the shaft and bearings. The damage is already done.

so is that an installation error on your part?

No, these are torqued and aligned by the manufacturer. This was an oversight. It happens. this is one of the DP 160amp alternators, and I believe Ty'* source backs up his products pretty well. Still a great alternator.

A side note....just took the Zilla grocery-getting. On the way, I noticed I'm charging over 14 volts again. For the last month or two, it'* been 12-13 volts all the time. It was binding, and possibly causing some belt slip.

i got a loose rattle too and a mechanic said it sounds like an altinator bearinga nd i should get it fixed. whats and altinator cost? and what damage can this rattle do and also how can i make sure thats the problem?

Get yourself a mechanics stethescope like Bill'*. Use extreme caution when working in close proximity of rotating equipment with the scope. You can check around online for alternator prices, a good quality alternator can run a couple hundred dollars.