[FIXED] 130A 3G Alternator locks up/binds under load

[ratdude747]

Had the stock 95A alternator in my 1995 Ranger blow up on me last week. Since then, I was able to return the exising unit (Duralast reman) and get a warranty refund (they honored the lifetime warranty, despite me buying it back in 11/2015. Yay AZ... too bad they don't seems to stock the right unit any more).

Today I went to Pull-A-Part and I pulled a 130A alternator out of a 1996 Explorer sport (looks to be a new-ish unit). I installed that unit on my ranger.

The alternator spins fine when the engine is off. However, when running, it's locking up/binding and slipping the belt badly. Lots of squeaking, and the pulley and belt were HOT after a minute of running. Not charging either. This wasn't the case before.

If this is an alternator issue, what would I need to replace (or would I be better off rebuilding it?). If not, what would cause that? The tensioner isn't fantastic, but it is pulling tension (ugh, as soon as I typed that I now think I have a culprit?). Nothing else is slipping as far as I can tell.

 

[ratdude747]

Replaced the sketchy belt tensioner. No change... but the tensioner action is a lot better at least.

Alternator faulty?

 

[PetroleumJunkie412]

Likely.

 

[Curious Hound]

I would use that alternator for the core charge to get a new one of that model.

 

[Dirtman]

Might I suggest cursing at it?

 

[ratdude747]

Got a reman alternator installed... no change. Chirp, chirp, hot slipping belt and no charging. Came with a new pulley too.

My Stator plug has a busted clip... but it did fit on the terminal. Otherwise, don't know why I'm binding the belt enough to squeak it... I don't think my belt is bad?

 

[Uncle Gump]

The belt could be bad...

Did you put a volt meter on it? Does it want to overcharge?

 

[Dirtman]

I'd check all the brackets and pulleys on the other accessories. Something may he out of alignment. Or the belt is the wrong size?

 

[Curious Hound]

Are you positive that is the source of the noise and friction?

 

[ratdude747]

Yep, bad belt upon further inspection. New belt, now it's charging like it should.

 

[Dirtman]

 

[Bossman1069]

Got a reman alternator installed... no change. Chirp, chirp, hot slipping belt and no charging. Came with a new pulley too.

My Stator plug has a busted clip... but it did fit on the terminal. Otherwise, don't know why I'm binding the belt enough to squeak it... I don't think my belt is bad?

 

[Bossman1069]

Hey rat dude 7:47 did you see my GeM question I'd appreciate any advice you could give me