Chrome Alternator, but...

[dungeoncustoms]

I received the chrome Powermaster Alternator, that I bought on eBay, today. The seller said that it stopped charging and that it would need to be rebuilt. I am currently using a remanufactured alternator that I purchased from NAPA. It is working fine, but I wanted a chrome alternator. What I would like to know is how do I diagnose what is wrong with the Powermaster Alternator that I purchased. Could I just switch out the components from my current alternator? The Powermaster model number is: 18112 (140/90A-max/idle). The Napa alternator number is: BSHAL8691X (12v 140A) Both alternator look the same except for the chrome plating on the Powermaster

[57chevyragtop]

I would think you could just switch the cases if you think they measure in size the same. Unfortionately good parts stores are getting harder to find, meaning those that will check your alt. You also may try finding a rebuilder in your area and have them do the work. Most that I have dealt with in the past are pretty reasonable. I usually try to have my starters and alternators rebuilt in order to keep original parts. Sure it takes more time, but you generally end up with better results than off the shelf rebuilds. This may not be so true these days as it was years ago.

[dungeoncustoms]

Yeah I think I'm just gonna try and switch the cases. The Alt that I'm using from Napa is good quality I think. In other words, I've always had good luck with the parts, electrical and mechanical, that I've purchased from NAPA. These cases are identical except for the chrome, so I'll give it a shot. Afterwards if the alt ever quits functioning, I'll just put the NAPA case back on and return it to NAPA.

[crazy Jim]

Altenators are fairly simple to fix, usually its one of three things; the diode trio assy, the voltage reg, or the brushes. Sometimes the windings on the armature can be given new life by re-soldering them.