1995 Cutlass Alternator Problems 3.4 Engine

[brockhaus ronald]

I have a 1995 loaded converible with the 3.4 engine. I bought it new and it now has 20,000 miles on it. Problem is: the alternator failed at 10,000 miles and has now failed again at 20,000 miles. At $400 a pop I would like to avoid the apparent 30,000 mile failure, any experience out there?

Thanks

[ludakrissy]

yeah ive had plenty, youre just lucky you dont have to change it yourself, they have to drop the motor out of it just to get to the damn thing. fact is, GM let these slip through around the time they almost went bankrupt and since no other alternator works, youll just have to sell or replace till you croak. im up to 170,000 miles, and they still keep breakin down.

[knucklebuster2]

If this is the motor where the alternator is located at the bottom of the engine, it is a common problem because the alternator gets road splash, sucks up dirt, etc. Be sure any splash shields are properly installed. I don't get it, you have a 95 you bought new and it now has only 20,000 miles on it?!!!! Also, next time, buy a lifetime warranty alternator, Pep Boys sells them among others, and save the receipt. It may cost a little more, but you won't have to keep paying for alternators.

[ludakrissy]

its not because its dirty, its because the alternators for the cutlass are shit, the manufacturers cant fix it, and there really is no one known cause