93 rodeo - alternator keeps packing it in

[davi8r]

I replaced my belts about 6 months ago, and ever since then, I have been having problems with my charging system. The ammeter has always shown a high charge (3/4 of range), but now it is showing a lower (below half range) when starting up. The belt is squeeling until it warms up, then stops. When squeeling the lights and cabin air does not work. When the squeeling stops, the ammeter goes back to it's normal (higher) spot and the truck runs normally. Occasionally when I come up to a stop then start again the squeeling will start again. Eventually the alternator stopped giving a charge. When I took it out and had it tested, the guy said that the bearing was gone. I replaced the alternator and now the same thing is happening.

WTF??! Anyone have any ideas? This is only one of many probs with this truck. The problem is I like the truck too much to get rid of it. I guess I'm a glutton for punishment.

Thanks in advance for any comments.

d

[steffenk]

I had been having the same symptoms, especially in very cold weather (below freezing) or on very hot days with the A/C running. The first time it happened, I simply had the alternator belt tightened and the problem went away. When the symptom came back 1-2 yrs later, I replaced and tightened the alt belt, and the squeeing has stopped.

So NET - if the belt is new, it sounds like it needs to be tightened.

[trooperbc]

yes it is the belt adjustment.
the adjustment on my 92 trooper is much tighter than what i'm used to on other vehicles, so invariably i don't get it tight enough. for fear of overtightening it, i end up making a couple or so mini adjustments over a few days until the squelling stops.

in your case, since it is affecting actual output (it's volts your gauge is measuring i believe), your belt must be very loose.

the factory manual calls for some special gauge i've never been able to find, and if i did, i suspect it would cost a ton of $$.

maybe someone has a better seat of the pants procedure. . .

edit add: a bad bearing will make a different but similar sound, though usually more consistently once it starts. but it's fear of causing bearing seizure that keeps me from really tightening that adjustment from the start....

//bc

[Ramblin Fever]

Rule of thumb on these 3.2L's I've noticed, if the belt's been on a while and it starts to squeak - it needs replaced. If it's a new belt and it's squeaking - it needs tightened.

Your belt may have been so loose that it caused the alternator to croak, also, these Isuzu's don't like just ANY alternator, and chances are if it's from your local parts store - except maybe Napa - it probably won't last long.

Need an OEM, Hitachi, or Bosch alternator, which are not cheap, but at least your engine won't kill it off as fast.

Also, agree with Trooperbc, the belts seemed to need be extra snug on these engines.

List your other issues, maybe we could help.