C5 alternator removal

[xf1ref]

Hi,

My alternator is almost dead and I need to remove it. The problem seems to be at the regulator brushes because if I hit him with a spanner in the brushes area is starting to charge for some time.
I have an idea to remove the alternator but it will be great to see a procedure or at least some steps from someone who already did it.
The car is C5 III 2.0hdi 163hp vin:VF7**************[VIN obfuscated, can be read by forum staff]

[Hell Razor5543]

Might I suggest you take a very good look at the alternator. I had, years ago in the past, a BX whose alternator stopped working. I replacement was (then) around £80. However, it was just the brushes that had failed (well, worn out). I got a replacement set (a little module that just bolted into place) for around £15 and the alternator started working properly again.

[Gibbo2286]

This is the sort of thing James is referring to. This is a new Lucas on that's been sitting in my drawer for years.

[Pug_XUD_KeenAmateur]

I tried an Alternator Rebuild once, with new Brushes, it worked for a few weeks, but the Brassy bit the Brushes make contact with on the central spindle (I forget the name, Commutator?) was worn and so it was never going to be a permanent fix.

Decided that unfortunately the only way with Alternators is to replace the whole unit

Possibly with a modern you'll need to have a word with the ECU following the change of alternator, else it won't recognise it.... but others will know more about that and whether your car's modern enough for those sorts of shenanigans

[Gibbo2286]

They're called 'slip rings' on an alternator puxa commutators on a dynamo or starter motor.

Provided they're not damaged a new regulator and brushes will do the job for a very long time.

[moizeau]

Just stick a brush/regulator block on for 20 quid, possibly doable in situ. I've done 2 BX's, first was the alt out to realise it was 2 philips screws that were accessible .
If it doesn't work then the windings are knackered.
Nothing to lose, apart from 20 quid...but the odds are in your favour. Why do you think the alt refurb places offer such a 'good price' compared to new?

[xf1ref]

Just finished to mount the alternator back, as expected the brushes were worn. I've change also the bearings and the alternator pulley at a local garage, the slip sings are ok.
Few steps to remove the alternator, the job is quite simple.
1. Remove the wheel from alternator side.
2. Remove the accessory belt
3. Remove the two plastics where the oil filling hose is mounted
4. Remove the 3 bolts and the clamp that is underneath the alternator in the right side.

Some pictures..





Thanks all!

[Hell Razor5543]

So new brushes could well revive that alternator. Cleaning up the copper contacts would also help.