Four Signs of A Faulty Alternator

Alternators get their name from the term alternating current (AC). An alternator is a device that converts mechanical energy into AC electrical energy. In a gasoline or diesel-powered vehicle, the charging system consists of three main components: the battery, voltage regulator, and alternator. The alternator works with the battery to generate electricity for the car's electrical components, such as the interior and exterior lights and dashboard. There are many alternator suppliers, if you need to buy an alternator, MyMRO can offer you cheap alternator.

Four Signs of a faulty alternator

Dim or over bright lights

When the alternator starts to fail, it provides inconsistent voltage to your electronic accessories. Typically, this manifests itself as under- or over-performing equipment, such as car lights that are either too dim or too bright. You may also experience flickering lights, or erratic changes in light from bright to dark.

Dead battery

Sometimes a dead battery can be a sign of a malfunctioning alternator. A bad alternator cannot adequately charge the battery while the engine is running, causing the charge to drain faster than usual. One way to test for a battery problem is to start the car. If you start your car and it's still running, your battery may need replacing soon. However, if you start the car and it dies shortly after, it probably means your alternator isn't supplying enough power to the battery.

Trouble starting or frequent stalling

As mentioned earlier, a difficult engine start could mean that the alternator is unable to charge the battery. That means when you turn the key to start the ignition, you'll only hear a rattling sound, not the engine's grunt. On the other hand, if your car stalls frequently while driving, it could be a sign that the spark plugs aren't getting enough power from the alternator to keep the engine running.

Growling or whining noises

If you've ever heard growling or whining coming from under the hood, you may have an alternator problem, which should be checked by a professional as soon as possible.

This growling or whining sound occurs when the belt turning the alternator pulley becomes misaligned or rubs against the side of the pulley. You may also hear this sound if the bearing that spins the rotor shaft fails.

Alternator VS Generator

1. Definition: an alternator is a device that converts mechanical energy into AC electrical energy, while a generator is a mechanical device which converts mechanical energy to either AC or DC electrical energy.

2. Output current: an alternator always induces an alternating current. A generator can not only generate alternating current but direct current.

3. Polarization after installation: polarization is not required in the case of alternators and generators need to be polarized after installation.

4. Magnetic field: the magnetic field is rotating inside the stator of an alternator. In the case of a generator, the magnetic field is stationary or fixed where the armature winding spins.

5. Armature movement: the armature of an alternator is stationary, while the armature of a generator is rotating.

6. Input supply: the alternator takes input supply from the statorbut the generator takes the input supply from the rotor.