This is a real common problem on GM vehicles caused by the huge voltage spikes they develop. However, this only applies to the 1987 and newer models with the redesigned generator. The solution is to replace the battery at the same time, unless it is less than about two years old.
Your generator, in my opinion, is the second best generator design. The first point of interest is there is nothing on a car that can cause a generator to fail. The second point of great value is an AC generator, ("alternator" as it is commonly called, but that term is copyrighted by Chrysler), is physically incapable of developing more current than it was designed to deliver.
With those wondrous facts in mind, the only way to know what is causing these failures is to do an autopsy. Everything in these generators can be replaced, and it is pretty easy to diagnose. First of all, are you familiar with the "D"-hole on the back and how to use it? That will tell you if the voltage regulator has failed. A dim "battery" light indicates the diode trio has failed. If these are high-mileage used generators, worn brushes are a good suspect, but those will cause intermittent loss of charging for weeks or months before the failure becomes permanent.
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Sunday, July 30th, 2017 AT 8:57 PM
