first long trip... not so pleasant

[gagtinohio]

So, my boyfriend and I took the grand am to myrtle beach this week... didn't really have a good time. I live in NE ohio, and it's about a 700+ mile drive. We got there sunday afternoon about 4pm. Monday night, we went putt putt (sp?) golfing.. Anyway, we got like 3 miles down the road, and my battery light came on.. a few seconds later, it went off... so we didn't really think much of it. But not 30 seconds later, we started smelling this burning smell... smoke came pouring out from under my hood, so we pulled into the nearest parking lot... popped the hood.. and there were foot high flames coming off my alternator... well we put the fire out.. but of course we couldn't drive it... so it was towed and we had to walk 5 miles the next day to go pick it up. Now... I know there have been a few recalls on the car that I own... 1997 Grand Am GT, VG, 3100... anyone know more about it, or have had this experience?

Jessica

[xeroinfinity]

well that sucks! you can check for recalls here http://www.partsamerica.com/Default.aspx
if the link doesnt work go to advaceautoparts.com pick the shop online and at the bottom of the new page on the right is the recall link.
Well I hope you guys at least had a good visit in NC at MB. been a long time since I've been there. Hope this helps.

[skibum1111]

I've seen a few alternator fires before, and usually the entire car ends up burning, so you got really lucky. Have a shop change the alternator for you and have them check the wiring to make sure nothing is shorted out. If you are lucky you didnt' do any serious damage to the car, but there could be some electrical damage due to the excessive heat caused by the fire. Good luck.