Alternator Brushes

[Newby]

Hi There, I think the brushes on my wifes 1.1 C3 have just gone. I had the bonet up with the engine running looking for a water leak, when the engine faultered and smoke started coming from the vents on the alternator. I looked over the alternaor and saw sparks at the armature followed by a strong smell of burning, leading me to think the brushes have burnt out. Can these be replaced or is it a new Alternator ?? Thanks Peter.

[Peter.N.]

Hi Peter

I doubt that the brushes would cause all those pyrotechnics, I think its more likely that the diodes have gone short circuit and burn't the windings out. Brush/regulator sets are available very reasonably on ebay but before getting them I would be inclined to take the alternator apart and check the damage.

Peter

[citronut]

also before fitting new brush's check there is no groove worn in the slip rings, if so the new brush's wont seat properly,


regards malcolm