I think my alternator has gone out.

[ss101504]

Earlier today I was driving and heard a grinding noise, and smelled a acrd odor. When I opened the hood, the smell was coming from the alternator, and it was shooting sparks. Someone said it might just be a bearing. But the battery light came on. Which might it be, the alternator, or the alternator bearing? Any help y'all can provide would be greatly appreciated.
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[MagicRat]

I have never heard of a bearing shooting sparks on its own. . Imo the armature frame is rubbing against the inside of the alternator housing because a bearing let go.

[ss101504]

Hmmmm.... So since it could be assumed that's the reason for the sparks, would replacing the bearing fix the problem, or would it be a good idea to just replace the alternator due to any damage caused by the rubbing?
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[ricebike]

get another rebuilt unit; just to be on the safe side...

bearing is internal anyways

[MagicRat]

Originally Posted by ricebike

get another rebuilt unit; just to be on the safe side...

bearing is internal anyways

I would agree. I think the old unit may be too badly damaged inside to repair.

[ss101504]

Right on. Thanks guys. I guess I'll go ahead and replace the alternator then.
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[j cAT]

Originally Posted by ss101504

Right on. Thanks guys. I guess I'll go ahead and replace the alternator then.
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that alternator bearing must of been making noise for a long time to get to the point of stator windings getting riped apart,,,if not it may be the windings started to separate...high heat and high rpms can do this..