Why won't the new alternator go back in as easily as the old alternator came out, on a 1998 buick park avenue ultra?
Apr 16, 2011 at 8:19 PM
Alternator
1998 BUICK PARK AVENUE
GINO500
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Repair Safety Notice:
This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous.
Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment,
and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.
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Welcome to our world. Be sure the new one matches the old one. If there are any spacers in one of the mounting holes, you may have to tap it one way or the other to center it.
Also, be aware that this is the worst design generator GM ever dreamed up. It is common to go through four to six of them in the life of the car. What many professionals are finding out is to reduce the number of repeat failures, you should replace the perfectly good battery at the same time. These generators develop huge voltage spikes that can destroy the diodes and voltage regulator built into the unit. As the battery ages, it looses its ability to dampen and absorb those spikes. The old battery will work fine an a pre-1987 vehicle with the older, more reliable generator.
Also, be aware that this is the worst design generator GM ever dreamed up. It is common to go through four to six of them in the life of the car. What many professionals are finding out is to reduce the number of repeat failures, you should replace the perfectly good battery at the same time. These generators develop huge voltage spikes that can destroy the diodes and voltage regulator built into the unit. As the battery ages, it looses its ability to dampen and absorb those spikes. The old battery will work fine an a pre-1987 vehicle with the older, more reliable generator.
Apr 16, 2011 at 11:20 PM
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