how much to install alternator on 90 accord?

[wizards20]

Hey,

I went to the shop and found out I had a dead alternator.... I think the cost was $242 for a replacement and installation..... anyhow, does anyone know generally how much is charged for installation of the alternator? I was thinking of getting one used for about $50, is that the way to go?


Thx in advance

[mpumas]

An alternator should last about 150K miles. There are three thiings that good bad on an alternator: bearings, brushes/slip ring, diodes. So if you can find one from a car with 80K, you should have 5 years of life left. If putting in a used alternator, look at the brushes/slip ring and replace/turn if worn. Labor to replace the alternator is about 2 hours ($250.)

[ProMan]

The most common problem for alternator is the carbon brush. The brush lasts 140k - 170k. It's not hard to replace at all and the brush costs less than $10/pair.

[mpumas]

I agree that the most common problem is the brushes. But before just installing new brushes, one should throughly inspect the slip ring and have it turned if rough/grooved or the new brushes will wear out in a couple thousand miles.