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update on emergency brake warning light
Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't start, like the way a
dead battery sounds. I kept trying, it finally started Plus that brake warning light was no longer on!!! Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking alternator. So I left the car there, and we'll see what happens tomorrow. I'll let you all know loner |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote in message news:YLudnb5aF7d9_xLZnZ2dnUVZ_vidnZ2d@comcast.com. .. > Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't start, like the way a > dead battery sounds. I kept trying, it finally started Plus that brake > warning light was no longer on!!! > Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking alternator. So I left > the car there, and we'll see what happens tomorrow. I'll let you all know > loner BTW, in general, are alternators really expensive? I mean the part itself--labor is always expensive! loner > > |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote in message news:YLudnb5aF7d9_xLZnZ2dnUVZ_vidnZ2d@comcast.com. .. > Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't start, like the way a > dead battery sounds. I kept trying, it finally started Plus that brake > warning light was no longer on!!! > Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking alternator. So I left > the car there, and we'll see what happens tomorrow. I'll let you all know > loner BTW, in general, are alternators really expensive? I mean the part itself--labor is always expensive! loner > > |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote in message news:YLudnb5aF7d9_xLZnZ2dnUVZ_vidnZ2d@comcast.com. .. > Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't start, like the way a > dead battery sounds. I kept trying, it finally started Plus that brake > warning light was no longer on!!! > Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking alternator. So I left > the car there, and we'll see what happens tomorrow. I'll let you all know > loner BTW, in general, are alternators really expensive? I mean the part itself--labor is always expensive! loner > > |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
the loner wrote:
> > "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote in message > news:YLudnb5aF7d9_xLZnZ2dnUVZ_vidnZ2d@comcast.com. .. > > Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't start, like the way a > > dead battery sounds. I kept trying, it finally started Plus that brake > > warning light was no longer on!!! > > Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking alternator. So I left > > the car there, and we'll see what happens tomorrow. I'll let you all know > > loner > > BTW, in general, are alternators really expensive? I mean the part > itself--labor is always expensive! > loner > > > > ----------------------------------------- Alternators are expensive, but nobody replaces the whole alternator, just the 'brushes'. I expect your mechanic will suggest a little Vaseline (for your battery terminals too). 'Curly' |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
the loner wrote:
> > "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote in message > news:YLudnb5aF7d9_xLZnZ2dnUVZ_vidnZ2d@comcast.com. .. > > Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't start, like the way a > > dead battery sounds. I kept trying, it finally started Plus that brake > > warning light was no longer on!!! > > Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking alternator. So I left > > the car there, and we'll see what happens tomorrow. I'll let you all know > > loner > > BTW, in general, are alternators really expensive? I mean the part > itself--labor is always expensive! > loner > > > > ----------------------------------------- Alternators are expensive, but nobody replaces the whole alternator, just the 'brushes'. I expect your mechanic will suggest a little Vaseline (for your battery terminals too). 'Curly' |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
the loner wrote:
> > "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote in message > news:YLudnb5aF7d9_xLZnZ2dnUVZ_vidnZ2d@comcast.com. .. > > Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't start, like the way a > > dead battery sounds. I kept trying, it finally started Plus that brake > > warning light was no longer on!!! > > Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking alternator. So I left > > the car there, and we'll see what happens tomorrow. I'll let you all know > > loner > > BTW, in general, are alternators really expensive? I mean the part > itself--labor is always expensive! > loner > > > > ----------------------------------------- Alternators are expensive, but nobody replaces the whole alternator, just the 'brushes'. I expect your mechanic will suggest a little Vaseline (for your battery terminals too). 'Curly' |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote
about an 89 Civic DX sedan > "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote >> Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't >> start, like the way a dead battery sounds. I kept >> trying, it finally started Plus that brake warning light >> was no longer on!!! >> Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking >> alternator. So I left the car there, and we'll see what >> happens tomorrow. I'll let you all know >> loner > > BTW, in general, are alternators really expensive? I mean > the part itself--labor is always expensive! You can get a price on the alternator (possibly rebuilt) at places like www.slhonda.com and www.hondaautomotiveparts.com .. Like Curly said, if if the source of the problem is the alternator, most likely it's just the brushes being too old and worn. Here's some info on the subject: http://home.earthlink.net/~honda.lioness/id13.html How old are your alternator and battery, anyway? If the brushes have never been replaced, the probability is good it is they. |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote
about an 89 Civic DX sedan > "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote >> Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't >> start, like the way a dead battery sounds. I kept >> trying, it finally started Plus that brake warning light >> was no longer on!!! >> Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking >> alternator. So I left the car there, and we'll see what >> happens tomorrow. I'll let you all know >> loner > > BTW, in general, are alternators really expensive? I mean > the part itself--labor is always expensive! You can get a price on the alternator (possibly rebuilt) at places like www.slhonda.com and www.hondaautomotiveparts.com .. Like Curly said, if if the source of the problem is the alternator, most likely it's just the brushes being too old and worn. Here's some info on the subject: http://home.earthlink.net/~honda.lioness/id13.html How old are your alternator and battery, anyway? If the brushes have never been replaced, the probability is good it is they. |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote
about an 89 Civic DX sedan > "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote >> Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't >> start, like the way a dead battery sounds. I kept >> trying, it finally started Plus that brake warning light >> was no longer on!!! >> Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking >> alternator. So I left the car there, and we'll see what >> happens tomorrow. I'll let you all know >> loner > > BTW, in general, are alternators really expensive? I mean > the part itself--labor is always expensive! You can get a price on the alternator (possibly rebuilt) at places like www.slhonda.com and www.hondaautomotiveparts.com .. Like Curly said, if if the source of the problem is the alternator, most likely it's just the brushes being too old and worn. Here's some info on the subject: http://home.earthlink.net/~honda.lioness/id13.html How old are your alternator and battery, anyway? If the brushes have never been replaced, the probability is good it is they. |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"'Curly Q. Links'" <motsco__@interbaun.com> wrote in message news:448F6D0A.315A6A06@interbaun.com... > the loner wrote: >> >> "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote in message >> news:YLudnb5aF7d9_xLZnZ2dnUVZ_vidnZ2d@comcast.com. .. >> > Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't start, like the way >> > a >> > dead battery sounds. I kept trying, it finally started Plus that brake >> > warning light was no longer on!!! >> > Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking alternator. So I left >> > the car there, and we'll see what happens tomorrow. I'll let you all >> > know >> > loner >> >> BTW, in general, are alternators really expensive? I mean the part >> itself--labor is always expensive! >> loner >> > >> > > ----------------------------------------- > > Alternators are expensive, but nobody replaces the whole alternator, > just the 'brushes'. I expect your mechanic will suggest a little > Vaseline (for your battery terminals too). > > 'Curly' Thanks Curly, that's good to know loner |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"'Curly Q. Links'" <motsco__@interbaun.com> wrote in message news:448F6D0A.315A6A06@interbaun.com... > the loner wrote: >> >> "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote in message >> news:YLudnb5aF7d9_xLZnZ2dnUVZ_vidnZ2d@comcast.com. .. >> > Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't start, like the way >> > a >> > dead battery sounds. I kept trying, it finally started Plus that brake >> > warning light was no longer on!!! >> > Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking alternator. So I left >> > the car there, and we'll see what happens tomorrow. I'll let you all >> > know >> > loner >> >> BTW, in general, are alternators really expensive? I mean the part >> itself--labor is always expensive! >> loner >> > >> > > ----------------------------------------- > > Alternators are expensive, but nobody replaces the whole alternator, > just the 'brushes'. I expect your mechanic will suggest a little > Vaseline (for your battery terminals too). > > 'Curly' Thanks Curly, that's good to know loner |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"'Curly Q. Links'" <motsco__@interbaun.com> wrote in message news:448F6D0A.315A6A06@interbaun.com... > the loner wrote: >> >> "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote in message >> news:YLudnb5aF7d9_xLZnZ2dnUVZ_vidnZ2d@comcast.com. .. >> > Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't start, like the way >> > a >> > dead battery sounds. I kept trying, it finally started Plus that brake >> > warning light was no longer on!!! >> > Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking alternator. So I left >> > the car there, and we'll see what happens tomorrow. I'll let you all >> > know >> > loner >> >> BTW, in general, are alternators really expensive? I mean the part >> itself--labor is always expensive! >> loner >> > >> > > ----------------------------------------- > > Alternators are expensive, but nobody replaces the whole alternator, > just the 'brushes'. I expect your mechanic will suggest a little > Vaseline (for your battery terminals too). > > 'Curly' Thanks Curly, that's good to know loner |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"Elle" <honda.lioness@nospam.earthlink.net> wrote in message news:zaKjg.5667$o4.280@newsread2.news.pas.earthlin k.net... > "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote > about an 89 Civic DX sedan >> "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote >>> Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't start, like the way >>> a dead battery sounds. I kept trying, it finally started Plus that >>> brake warning light was no longer on!!! >>> Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking alternator. So I left >>> the car there, and we'll see what happens tomorrow. I'll let you all >>> know >>> loner >> >> BTW, in general, are alternators really expensive? I mean the part >> itself--labor is always expensive! > > You can get a price on the alternator (possibly rebuilt) at places like > www.slhonda.com and www.hondaautomotiveparts.com . Like Curly said, if if > the source of the problem is the alternator, most likely it's just the > brushes being too old and worn. > > Here's some info on the subject: > http://home.earthlink.net/~honda.lioness/id13.html > > How old are your alternator and battery, anyway? > > If the brushes have never been replaced, the probability is good it is > they. Hi again Elle. thenks for the links. The battery is about 1 1/2 yrs old, the alternator has brobably never been replaced. I looked through my old invoices & couldn't find anyting, but as I said, there's only 62,000 miles on it, so probably the brushes haven't been replaced I'll call them tomorrow am and ask about all this. If they do say I need a new Alternator, do you think that's a rip off? Should I ask for the brushes to be replaced first, and see how it goes, then get an alternator if the new brushes don't fix the problem? Thanks again everybody--probably a new update tomorrow loner > > |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"Elle" <honda.lioness@nospam.earthlink.net> wrote in message news:zaKjg.5667$o4.280@newsread2.news.pas.earthlin k.net... > "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote > about an 89 Civic DX sedan >> "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote >>> Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't start, like the way >>> a dead battery sounds. I kept trying, it finally started Plus that >>> brake warning light was no longer on!!! >>> Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking alternator. So I left >>> the car there, and we'll see what happens tomorrow. I'll let you all >>> know >>> loner >> >> BTW, in general, are alternators really expensive? I mean the part >> itself--labor is always expensive! > > You can get a price on the alternator (possibly rebuilt) at places like > www.slhonda.com and www.hondaautomotiveparts.com . Like Curly said, if if > the source of the problem is the alternator, most likely it's just the > brushes being too old and worn. > > Here's some info on the subject: > http://home.earthlink.net/~honda.lioness/id13.html > > How old are your alternator and battery, anyway? > > If the brushes have never been replaced, the probability is good it is > they. Hi again Elle. thenks for the links. The battery is about 1 1/2 yrs old, the alternator has brobably never been replaced. I looked through my old invoices & couldn't find anyting, but as I said, there's only 62,000 miles on it, so probably the brushes haven't been replaced I'll call them tomorrow am and ask about all this. If they do say I need a new Alternator, do you think that's a rip off? Should I ask for the brushes to be replaced first, and see how it goes, then get an alternator if the new brushes don't fix the problem? Thanks again everybody--probably a new update tomorrow loner > > |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"Elle" <honda.lioness@nospam.earthlink.net> wrote in message news:zaKjg.5667$o4.280@newsread2.news.pas.earthlin k.net... > "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote > about an 89 Civic DX sedan >> "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote >>> Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't start, like the way >>> a dead battery sounds. I kept trying, it finally started Plus that >>> brake warning light was no longer on!!! >>> Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking alternator. So I left >>> the car there, and we'll see what happens tomorrow. I'll let you all >>> know >>> loner >> >> BTW, in general, are alternators really expensive? I mean the part >> itself--labor is always expensive! > > You can get a price on the alternator (possibly rebuilt) at places like > www.slhonda.com and www.hondaautomotiveparts.com . Like Curly said, if if > the source of the problem is the alternator, most likely it's just the > brushes being too old and worn. > > Here's some info on the subject: > http://home.earthlink.net/~honda.lioness/id13.html > > How old are your alternator and battery, anyway? > > If the brushes have never been replaced, the probability is good it is > they. Hi again Elle. thenks for the links. The battery is about 1 1/2 yrs old, the alternator has brobably never been replaced. I looked through my old invoices & couldn't find anyting, but as I said, there's only 62,000 miles on it, so probably the brushes haven't been replaced I'll call them tomorrow am and ask about all this. If they do say I need a new Alternator, do you think that's a rip off? Should I ask for the brushes to be replaced first, and see how it goes, then get an alternator if the new brushes don't fix the problem? Thanks again everybody--probably a new update tomorrow loner > > |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote
> "Elle" <honda.lioness@nospam.earthlink.net> wrote >> "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote >> about an 89 Civic DX sedan >>> "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote >>>> Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't >>>> start, like the way a dead battery sounds. I kept >>>> trying, it finally started Plus that brake warning >>>> light was no longer on!!! >>>> Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking >>>> alternator. So I left the car there, and we'll see what >>>> happens tomorrow. I'll let you all know >>>> loner >>> >>> BTW, in general, are alternators really expensive? I >>> mean the part itself--labor is always expensive! >> >> You can get a price on the alternator (possibly rebuilt) >> at places like www.slhonda.com and >> www.hondaautomotiveparts.com . Like Curly said, if if the >> source of the problem is the alternator, most likely it's >> just the brushes being too old and worn. >> >> Here's some info on the subject: >> http://home.earthlink.net/~honda.lioness/id13.html >> >> How old are your alternator and battery, anyway? >> >> If the brushes have never been replaced, the probability >> is good it is they. > > Hi again Elle. thenks for the links. The battery is about > 1 1/2 yrs old, Done any jumpstarts on it? My site talks about how this will significantly reduce a battery's life. But it's more likely the alternator's brushes can no longer keep the battery charged. > the alternator has brobably never been replaced. I looked > through my old invoices & couldn't find anyting, but as I > said, there's only 62,000 miles on it, so probably the > brushes haven't been replaced > I'll call them tomorrow am and ask about all this. If they > do say I need a new Alternator, do you think that's a rip > off? No, not necessarily. ISTM the labor it takes to do just the brushes can approach the total cost of replacing the whole alternator. Other parts go bad on alternators, just not as often. ISTM a car kept 20 years should need at least one alternator replacement in the course of those 20 years. If one is a do-it-yourselfer and has the time, then doing just the brushes makes sense. This is not so for someone who doesn't work much on cars and wants a repair that will (1) last; (2) not lead to throwing good money after bad. This is my rough impression, based on only one personal alternator experience, a little exploration on brushes, and a lot of reading. I am really not sure how often independent shops are willing to do 'just the brushes.' Look for others' thoughts on this. Tegger, Socalmike, Michael Pardee, JT, Curly (among other regulars)? > Should I ask for the brushes to be replaced first, and see > how it goes, then get an alternator if the new brushes > don't fix the problem? > Thanks again everybody--probably a new update tomorrow |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote
> "Elle" <honda.lioness@nospam.earthlink.net> wrote >> "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote >> about an 89 Civic DX sedan >>> "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote >>>> Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't >>>> start, like the way a dead battery sounds. I kept >>>> trying, it finally started Plus that brake warning >>>> light was no longer on!!! >>>> Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking >>>> alternator. So I left the car there, and we'll see what >>>> happens tomorrow. I'll let you all know >>>> loner >>> >>> BTW, in general, are alternators really expensive? I >>> mean the part itself--labor is always expensive! >> >> You can get a price on the alternator (possibly rebuilt) >> at places like www.slhonda.com and >> www.hondaautomotiveparts.com . Like Curly said, if if the >> source of the problem is the alternator, most likely it's >> just the brushes being too old and worn. >> >> Here's some info on the subject: >> http://home.earthlink.net/~honda.lioness/id13.html >> >> How old are your alternator and battery, anyway? >> >> If the brushes have never been replaced, the probability >> is good it is they. > > Hi again Elle. thenks for the links. The battery is about > 1 1/2 yrs old, Done any jumpstarts on it? My site talks about how this will significantly reduce a battery's life. But it's more likely the alternator's brushes can no longer keep the battery charged. > the alternator has brobably never been replaced. I looked > through my old invoices & couldn't find anyting, but as I > said, there's only 62,000 miles on it, so probably the > brushes haven't been replaced > I'll call them tomorrow am and ask about all this. If they > do say I need a new Alternator, do you think that's a rip > off? No, not necessarily. ISTM the labor it takes to do just the brushes can approach the total cost of replacing the whole alternator. Other parts go bad on alternators, just not as often. ISTM a car kept 20 years should need at least one alternator replacement in the course of those 20 years. If one is a do-it-yourselfer and has the time, then doing just the brushes makes sense. This is not so for someone who doesn't work much on cars and wants a repair that will (1) last; (2) not lead to throwing good money after bad. This is my rough impression, based on only one personal alternator experience, a little exploration on brushes, and a lot of reading. I am really not sure how often independent shops are willing to do 'just the brushes.' Look for others' thoughts on this. Tegger, Socalmike, Michael Pardee, JT, Curly (among other regulars)? > Should I ask for the brushes to be replaced first, and see > how it goes, then get an alternator if the new brushes > don't fix the problem? > Thanks again everybody--probably a new update tomorrow |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote
> "Elle" <honda.lioness@nospam.earthlink.net> wrote >> "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote >> about an 89 Civic DX sedan >>> "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote >>>> Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't >>>> start, like the way a dead battery sounds. I kept >>>> trying, it finally started Plus that brake warning >>>> light was no longer on!!! >>>> Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking >>>> alternator. So I left the car there, and we'll see what >>>> happens tomorrow. I'll let you all know >>>> loner >>> >>> BTW, in general, are alternators really expensive? I >>> mean the part itself--labor is always expensive! >> >> You can get a price on the alternator (possibly rebuilt) >> at places like www.slhonda.com and >> www.hondaautomotiveparts.com . Like Curly said, if if the >> source of the problem is the alternator, most likely it's >> just the brushes being too old and worn. >> >> Here's some info on the subject: >> http://home.earthlink.net/~honda.lioness/id13.html >> >> How old are your alternator and battery, anyway? >> >> If the brushes have never been replaced, the probability >> is good it is they. > > Hi again Elle. thenks for the links. The battery is about > 1 1/2 yrs old, Done any jumpstarts on it? My site talks about how this will significantly reduce a battery's life. But it's more likely the alternator's brushes can no longer keep the battery charged. > the alternator has brobably never been replaced. I looked > through my old invoices & couldn't find anyting, but as I > said, there's only 62,000 miles on it, so probably the > brushes haven't been replaced > I'll call them tomorrow am and ask about all this. If they > do say I need a new Alternator, do you think that's a rip > off? No, not necessarily. ISTM the labor it takes to do just the brushes can approach the total cost of replacing the whole alternator. Other parts go bad on alternators, just not as often. ISTM a car kept 20 years should need at least one alternator replacement in the course of those 20 years. If one is a do-it-yourselfer and has the time, then doing just the brushes makes sense. This is not so for someone who doesn't work much on cars and wants a repair that will (1) last; (2) not lead to throwing good money after bad. This is my rough impression, based on only one personal alternator experience, a little exploration on brushes, and a lot of reading. I am really not sure how often independent shops are willing to do 'just the brushes.' Look for others' thoughts on this. Tegger, Socalmike, Michael Pardee, JT, Curly (among other regulars)? > Should I ask for the brushes to be replaced first, and see > how it goes, then get an alternator if the new brushes > don't fix the problem? > Thanks again everybody--probably a new update tomorrow |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote in
news:YLudnb5aF7d9_xLZnZ2dnUVZ_vidnZ2d@comcast.com: > Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't start, like the > way a dead battery sounds. I kept trying, it finally started Plus > that brake warning light was no longer on!!! > Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking alternator. Why? What did he do to arrive at this diagnosis? -- TeGGeR® The Unofficial Honda/Acura FAQ www.tegger.com/hondafaq/ |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote in
news:YLudnb5aF7d9_xLZnZ2dnUVZ_vidnZ2d@comcast.com: > Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't start, like the > way a dead battery sounds. I kept trying, it finally started Plus > that brake warning light was no longer on!!! > Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking alternator. Why? What did he do to arrive at this diagnosis? -- TeGGeR® The Unofficial Honda/Acura FAQ www.tegger.com/hondafaq/ |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote in
news:YLudnb5aF7d9_xLZnZ2dnUVZ_vidnZ2d@comcast.com: > Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't start, like the > way a dead battery sounds. I kept trying, it finally started Plus > that brake warning light was no longer on!!! > Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking alternator. Why? What did he do to arrive at this diagnosis? -- TeGGeR® The Unofficial Honda/Acura FAQ www.tegger.com/hondafaq/ |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"TeGGeR®" <tegger@tegger.c0m> wrote in message news:Xns97E1F01FA6E80tegger@207.14.116.130... > "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote in > news:YLudnb5aF7d9_xLZnZ2dnUVZ_vidnZ2d@comcast.com: > >> Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't start, like the >> way a dead battery sounds. I kept trying, it finally started Plus >> that brake warning light was no longer on!!! >> Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking alternator. > > > > Why? What did he do to arrive at this diagnosis? > > > > > > -- > TeGGeR® > > The Unofficial Honda/Acura FAQ > www.tegger.com/hondafaq/ Hi Tegger--the only thing I know so far is that there is nothing wrong with the brake system (fluid, switch, wiring etc). When i tried to start it this morning, it wouldn't--it felt & sounded like a dead battery, even though my battery is 1 1/2 yrs old. After about the 7th try, it started. Coincidently or not, my battery died last week, but I had left the lights on for about 20 minutes & even then I didn't think the battery would run down after such a short period. I got a jump & it was fine until this past weekend-that's when the brake warning light came on, What are other symptoms of a bad alternator? It hasn't been put in yet, so I can call him first thing in the morning if I have other options. Thanks again so much for your interest loner |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"TeGGeR®" <tegger@tegger.c0m> wrote in message news:Xns97E1F01FA6E80tegger@207.14.116.130... > "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote in > news:YLudnb5aF7d9_xLZnZ2dnUVZ_vidnZ2d@comcast.com: > >> Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't start, like the >> way a dead battery sounds. I kept trying, it finally started Plus >> that brake warning light was no longer on!!! >> Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking alternator. > > > > Why? What did he do to arrive at this diagnosis? > > > > > > -- > TeGGeR® > > The Unofficial Honda/Acura FAQ > www.tegger.com/hondafaq/ Hi Tegger--the only thing I know so far is that there is nothing wrong with the brake system (fluid, switch, wiring etc). When i tried to start it this morning, it wouldn't--it felt & sounded like a dead battery, even though my battery is 1 1/2 yrs old. After about the 7th try, it started. Coincidently or not, my battery died last week, but I had left the lights on for about 20 minutes & even then I didn't think the battery would run down after such a short period. I got a jump & it was fine until this past weekend-that's when the brake warning light came on, What are other symptoms of a bad alternator? It hasn't been put in yet, so I can call him first thing in the morning if I have other options. Thanks again so much for your interest loner |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"TeGGeR®" <tegger@tegger.c0m> wrote in message news:Xns97E1F01FA6E80tegger@207.14.116.130... > "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote in > news:YLudnb5aF7d9_xLZnZ2dnUVZ_vidnZ2d@comcast.com: > >> Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't start, like the >> way a dead battery sounds. I kept trying, it finally started Plus >> that brake warning light was no longer on!!! >> Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking alternator. > > > > Why? What did he do to arrive at this diagnosis? > > > > > > -- > TeGGeR® > > The Unofficial Honda/Acura FAQ > www.tegger.com/hondafaq/ Hi Tegger--the only thing I know so far is that there is nothing wrong with the brake system (fluid, switch, wiring etc). When i tried to start it this morning, it wouldn't--it felt & sounded like a dead battery, even though my battery is 1 1/2 yrs old. After about the 7th try, it started. Coincidently or not, my battery died last week, but I had left the lights on for about 20 minutes & even then I didn't think the battery would run down after such a short period. I got a jump & it was fine until this past weekend-that's when the brake warning light came on, What are other symptoms of a bad alternator? It hasn't been put in yet, so I can call him first thing in the morning if I have other options. Thanks again so much for your interest loner |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote in
news:sM6dnVjd5_4REBLZnZ2dnUVZ_oydnZ2d@comcast.com: > > Hi Tegger--the only thing I know so far is that there is nothing wrong > with the brake system (fluid, switch, wiring etc). When i tried to > start it this morning, it wouldn't--it felt & sounded like a dead > battery, even though my battery is 1 1/2 yrs old. After about the 7th > try, it started. Coincidently or not, my battery died last week, but I > had left the lights on for about 20 minutes & even then I didn't think > the battery would run down after such a short period. I got a jump & > it was fine until this past weekend-that's when the brake warning > light came on, > > What are other symptoms of a bad alternator? Under or overcharging, mostly. http://www.uuhome.de/william.darden/carfaq5.htm#voltage Your guy ought to know how to test the battery and charging system. It's SOP for any good garage. How did you check the brake light circuit? Did you try unplugging the wiring at the master cylinder cap? -- TeGGeR® The Unofficial Honda/Acura FAQ www.tegger.com/hondafaq/ |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote in
news:sM6dnVjd5_4REBLZnZ2dnUVZ_oydnZ2d@comcast.com: > > Hi Tegger--the only thing I know so far is that there is nothing wrong > with the brake system (fluid, switch, wiring etc). When i tried to > start it this morning, it wouldn't--it felt & sounded like a dead > battery, even though my battery is 1 1/2 yrs old. After about the 7th > try, it started. Coincidently or not, my battery died last week, but I > had left the lights on for about 20 minutes & even then I didn't think > the battery would run down after such a short period. I got a jump & > it was fine until this past weekend-that's when the brake warning > light came on, > > What are other symptoms of a bad alternator? Under or overcharging, mostly. http://www.uuhome.de/william.darden/carfaq5.htm#voltage Your guy ought to know how to test the battery and charging system. It's SOP for any good garage. How did you check the brake light circuit? Did you try unplugging the wiring at the master cylinder cap? -- TeGGeR® The Unofficial Honda/Acura FAQ www.tegger.com/hondafaq/ |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote in
news:sM6dnVjd5_4REBLZnZ2dnUVZ_oydnZ2d@comcast.com: > > Hi Tegger--the only thing I know so far is that there is nothing wrong > with the brake system (fluid, switch, wiring etc). When i tried to > start it this morning, it wouldn't--it felt & sounded like a dead > battery, even though my battery is 1 1/2 yrs old. After about the 7th > try, it started. Coincidently or not, my battery died last week, but I > had left the lights on for about 20 minutes & even then I didn't think > the battery would run down after such a short period. I got a jump & > it was fine until this past weekend-that's when the brake warning > light came on, > > What are other symptoms of a bad alternator? Under or overcharging, mostly. http://www.uuhome.de/william.darden/carfaq5.htm#voltage Your guy ought to know how to test the battery and charging system. It's SOP for any good garage. How did you check the brake light circuit? Did you try unplugging the wiring at the master cylinder cap? -- TeGGeR® The Unofficial Honda/Acura FAQ www.tegger.com/hondafaq/ |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
Elle wrote: > > "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote > > "Elle" <honda.lioness@nospam.earthlink.net> wrote > >> "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote > >> about an 89 Civic DX sedan > >>> "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote > >>>> Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't > >>>> start, like the way a dead battery sounds. I kept > >>>> trying, it finally started Plus that brake warning > >>>> light was no longer on!!! > >>>> Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking > >>>> alternator. So I left the car there, and we'll see what > >>>> happens tomorrow. I'll let you all know > >>>> loner > >>> > >>> BTW, in general, are alternators really expensive? I > >>> mean the part itself--labor is always expensive! > >> > >> You can get a price on the alternator (possibly rebuilt) > >> at places like www.slhonda.com and > >> www.hondaautomotiveparts.com . Like Curly said, if if the > >> source of the problem is the alternator, most likely it's > >> just the brushes being too old and worn. > >> > >> Here's some info on the subject: > >> http://home.earthlink.net/~honda.lioness/id13.html > >> > >> How old are your alternator and battery, anyway? > >> > >> If the brushes have never been replaced, the probability > >> is good it is they. > > > > Hi again Elle. thenks for the links. The battery is about > > 1 1/2 yrs old, > > Done any jumpstarts on it? My site talks about how this will > significantly reduce a battery's life. > > But it's more likely the alternator's brushes can no longer > keep the battery charged. > > > the alternator has brobably never been replaced. I looked > > through my old invoices & couldn't find anyting, but as I > > said, there's only 62,000 miles on it, so probably the > > brushes haven't been replaced > > I'll call them tomorrow am and ask about all this. If they > > do say I need a new Alternator, do you think that's a rip > > off? > > No, not necessarily. ISTM the labor it takes to do just the > brushes can approach the total cost of replacing the whole > alternator. > > Other parts go bad on alternators, just not as often. > > ISTM a car kept 20 years should need at least one alternator > replacement in the course of those 20 years. > > If one is a do-it-yourselfer and has the time, then doing > just the brushes makes sense. This is not so for someone who > doesn't work much on cars and wants a repair that will (1) > last; (2) not lead to throwing good money after bad. > > This is my rough impression, based on only one personal > alternator experience, a little exploration on brushes, and > a lot of reading. I am really not sure how often independent > shops are willing to do 'just the brushes.' Look for others' > thoughts on this. Tegger, Socalmike, Michael Pardee, JT, > Curly (among other regulars)? > Personally, I've generally opted for a rebuilt alternator (with a decent warranty) as bearings, diodes etc. become a factor after a significant period of time. Besides, I tend to be lazy at times... JT |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
Elle wrote: > > "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote > > "Elle" <honda.lioness@nospam.earthlink.net> wrote > >> "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote > >> about an 89 Civic DX sedan > >>> "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote > >>>> Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't > >>>> start, like the way a dead battery sounds. I kept > >>>> trying, it finally started Plus that brake warning > >>>> light was no longer on!!! > >>>> Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking > >>>> alternator. So I left the car there, and we'll see what > >>>> happens tomorrow. I'll let you all know > >>>> loner > >>> > >>> BTW, in general, are alternators really expensive? I > >>> mean the part itself--labor is always expensive! > >> > >> You can get a price on the alternator (possibly rebuilt) > >> at places like www.slhonda.com and > >> www.hondaautomotiveparts.com . Like Curly said, if if the > >> source of the problem is the alternator, most likely it's > >> just the brushes being too old and worn. > >> > >> Here's some info on the subject: > >> http://home.earthlink.net/~honda.lioness/id13.html > >> > >> How old are your alternator and battery, anyway? > >> > >> If the brushes have never been replaced, the probability > >> is good it is they. > > > > Hi again Elle. thenks for the links. The battery is about > > 1 1/2 yrs old, > > Done any jumpstarts on it? My site talks about how this will > significantly reduce a battery's life. > > But it's more likely the alternator's brushes can no longer > keep the battery charged. > > > the alternator has brobably never been replaced. I looked > > through my old invoices & couldn't find anyting, but as I > > said, there's only 62,000 miles on it, so probably the > > brushes haven't been replaced > > I'll call them tomorrow am and ask about all this. If they > > do say I need a new Alternator, do you think that's a rip > > off? > > No, not necessarily. ISTM the labor it takes to do just the > brushes can approach the total cost of replacing the whole > alternator. > > Other parts go bad on alternators, just not as often. > > ISTM a car kept 20 years should need at least one alternator > replacement in the course of those 20 years. > > If one is a do-it-yourselfer and has the time, then doing > just the brushes makes sense. This is not so for someone who > doesn't work much on cars and wants a repair that will (1) > last; (2) not lead to throwing good money after bad. > > This is my rough impression, based on only one personal > alternator experience, a little exploration on brushes, and > a lot of reading. I am really not sure how often independent > shops are willing to do 'just the brushes.' Look for others' > thoughts on this. Tegger, Socalmike, Michael Pardee, JT, > Curly (among other regulars)? > Personally, I've generally opted for a rebuilt alternator (with a decent warranty) as bearings, diodes etc. become a factor after a significant period of time. Besides, I tend to be lazy at times... JT |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
Elle wrote: > > "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote > > "Elle" <honda.lioness@nospam.earthlink.net> wrote > >> "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote > >> about an 89 Civic DX sedan > >>> "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote > >>>> Wento to go to mechanics this morning, car wouldn't > >>>> start, like the way a dead battery sounds. I kept > >>>> trying, it finally started Plus that brake warning > >>>> light was no longer on!!! > >>>> Took it to mechanic anyway---so far he's thinking > >>>> alternator. So I left the car there, and we'll see what > >>>> happens tomorrow. I'll let you all know > >>>> loner > >>> > >>> BTW, in general, are alternators really expensive? I > >>> mean the part itself--labor is always expensive! > >> > >> You can get a price on the alternator (possibly rebuilt) > >> at places like www.slhonda.com and > >> www.hondaautomotiveparts.com . Like Curly said, if if the > >> source of the problem is the alternator, most likely it's > >> just the brushes being too old and worn. > >> > >> Here's some info on the subject: > >> http://home.earthlink.net/~honda.lioness/id13.html > >> > >> How old are your alternator and battery, anyway? > >> > >> If the brushes have never been replaced, the probability > >> is good it is they. > > > > Hi again Elle. thenks for the links. The battery is about > > 1 1/2 yrs old, > > Done any jumpstarts on it? My site talks about how this will > significantly reduce a battery's life. > > But it's more likely the alternator's brushes can no longer > keep the battery charged. > > > the alternator has brobably never been replaced. I looked > > through my old invoices & couldn't find anyting, but as I > > said, there's only 62,000 miles on it, so probably the > > brushes haven't been replaced > > I'll call them tomorrow am and ask about all this. If they > > do say I need a new Alternator, do you think that's a rip > > off? > > No, not necessarily. ISTM the labor it takes to do just the > brushes can approach the total cost of replacing the whole > alternator. > > Other parts go bad on alternators, just not as often. > > ISTM a car kept 20 years should need at least one alternator > replacement in the course of those 20 years. > > If one is a do-it-yourselfer and has the time, then doing > just the brushes makes sense. This is not so for someone who > doesn't work much on cars and wants a repair that will (1) > last; (2) not lead to throwing good money after bad. > > This is my rough impression, based on only one personal > alternator experience, a little exploration on brushes, and > a lot of reading. I am really not sure how often independent > shops are willing to do 'just the brushes.' Look for others' > thoughts on this. Tegger, Socalmike, Michael Pardee, JT, > Curly (among other regulars)? > Personally, I've generally opted for a rebuilt alternator (with a decent warranty) as bearings, diodes etc. become a factor after a significant period of time. Besides, I tend to be lazy at times... JT |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"TeGGeR®" <tegger@tegger.c0m> wrote in message news:Xns97E2701CCCD1tegger@207.14.116.130... > "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote in > news:sM6dnVjd5_4REBLZnZ2dnUVZ_oydnZ2d@comcast.com: > >> > >> Hi Tegger--the only thing I know so far is that there is nothing wrong >> with the brake system (fluid, switch, wiring etc). When i tried to >> start it this morning, it wouldn't--it felt & sounded like a dead >> battery, even though my battery is 1 1/2 yrs old. After about the 7th >> try, it started. Coincidently or not, my battery died last week, but I >> had left the lights on for about 20 minutes & even then I didn't think >> the battery would run down after such a short period. I got a jump & >> it was fine until this past weekend-that's when the brake warning >> light came on, >> >> What are other symptoms of a bad alternator? > > > > Under or overcharging, mostly. > http://www.uuhome.de/william.darden/carfaq5.htm#voltage > > Your guy ought to know how to test the battery and charging system. It's > SOP for any good garage. > > How did you check the brake light circuit? Did you try unplugging the > wiring at the master cylinder cap? > > -- > TeGGeR® > > The Unofficial Honda/Acura FAQ > www.tegger.com/hondafaq/ To be honest, I'm very intiminated because of my lack of car knowledge, so I didn't do anything myself. The emerg.brake light warning was the initial problem, but today the brake warning light did not go on. Instead, I just couldn't get the engine to turn over-sounded like a dead battery, but I knew that couldn't be it-it's new I don't know if the brake switch was checked--it seems that because it took 7 tries to get it started, the brake warning light may have just been a symptom of something else, so they turned their attention to the starting problem. I'm sure they'll check the things you mentioned--those things weren't checked today because they ran out of time, so I left the car there to be worked on tomorrow. I am making a list of all things you all have mentioned so I can specifically ask them about each one. I do trust them, even though I just recently moved up here in the Sierras,but they seem up front & reasonable Next update tomorrow! Thanks! loner |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"TeGGeR®" <tegger@tegger.c0m> wrote in message news:Xns97E2701CCCD1tegger@207.14.116.130... > "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote in > news:sM6dnVjd5_4REBLZnZ2dnUVZ_oydnZ2d@comcast.com: > >> > >> Hi Tegger--the only thing I know so far is that there is nothing wrong >> with the brake system (fluid, switch, wiring etc). When i tried to >> start it this morning, it wouldn't--it felt & sounded like a dead >> battery, even though my battery is 1 1/2 yrs old. After about the 7th >> try, it started. Coincidently or not, my battery died last week, but I >> had left the lights on for about 20 minutes & even then I didn't think >> the battery would run down after such a short period. I got a jump & >> it was fine until this past weekend-that's when the brake warning >> light came on, >> >> What are other symptoms of a bad alternator? > > > > Under or overcharging, mostly. > http://www.uuhome.de/william.darden/carfaq5.htm#voltage > > Your guy ought to know how to test the battery and charging system. It's > SOP for any good garage. > > How did you check the brake light circuit? Did you try unplugging the > wiring at the master cylinder cap? > > -- > TeGGeR® > > The Unofficial Honda/Acura FAQ > www.tegger.com/hondafaq/ To be honest, I'm very intiminated because of my lack of car knowledge, so I didn't do anything myself. The emerg.brake light warning was the initial problem, but today the brake warning light did not go on. Instead, I just couldn't get the engine to turn over-sounded like a dead battery, but I knew that couldn't be it-it's new I don't know if the brake switch was checked--it seems that because it took 7 tries to get it started, the brake warning light may have just been a symptom of something else, so they turned their attention to the starting problem. I'm sure they'll check the things you mentioned--those things weren't checked today because they ran out of time, so I left the car there to be worked on tomorrow. I am making a list of all things you all have mentioned so I can specifically ask them about each one. I do trust them, even though I just recently moved up here in the Sierras,but they seem up front & reasonable Next update tomorrow! Thanks! loner |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
"TeGGeR®" <tegger@tegger.c0m> wrote in message news:Xns97E2701CCCD1tegger@207.14.116.130... > "the loner" <theloner@nowhere.com> wrote in > news:sM6dnVjd5_4REBLZnZ2dnUVZ_oydnZ2d@comcast.com: > >> > >> Hi Tegger--the only thing I know so far is that there is nothing wrong >> with the brake system (fluid, switch, wiring etc). When i tried to >> start it this morning, it wouldn't--it felt & sounded like a dead >> battery, even though my battery is 1 1/2 yrs old. After about the 7th >> try, it started. Coincidently or not, my battery died last week, but I >> had left the lights on for about 20 minutes & even then I didn't think >> the battery would run down after such a short period. I got a jump & >> it was fine until this past weekend-that's when the brake warning >> light came on, >> >> What are other symptoms of a bad alternator? > > > > Under or overcharging, mostly. > http://www.uuhome.de/william.darden/carfaq5.htm#voltage > > Your guy ought to know how to test the battery and charging system. It's > SOP for any good garage. > > How did you check the brake light circuit? Did you try unplugging the > wiring at the master cylinder cap? > > -- > TeGGeR® > > The Unofficial Honda/Acura FAQ > www.tegger.com/hondafaq/ To be honest, I'm very intiminated because of my lack of car knowledge, so I didn't do anything myself. The emerg.brake light warning was the initial problem, but today the brake warning light did not go on. Instead, I just couldn't get the engine to turn over-sounded like a dead battery, but I knew that couldn't be it-it's new I don't know if the brake switch was checked--it seems that because it took 7 tries to get it started, the brake warning light may have just been a symptom of something else, so they turned their attention to the starting problem. I'm sure they'll check the things you mentioned--those things weren't checked today because they ran out of time, so I left the car there to be worked on tomorrow. I am making a list of all things you all have mentioned so I can specifically ask them about each one. I do trust them, even though I just recently moved up here in the Sierras,but they seem up front & reasonable Next update tomorrow! Thanks! loner |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
> > No, not necessarily. ISTM the labor it takes to do just the brushes can > approach the total cost of replacing the whole alternator. > > Other parts go bad on alternators, just not as often. > > ISTM a car kept 20 years should need at least one alternator replacement > in the course of those 20 years. > > If one is a do-it-yourselfer and has the time, then doing just the brushes > makes sense. This is not so for someone who doesn't work much on cars and > wants a repair that will (1) last; (2) not lead to throwing good money > after bad. > > This is my rough impression, based on only one personal alternator > experience, a little exploration on brushes, and a lot of reading. I am > really not sure how often independent shops are willing to do 'just the > brushes.' Look for others' thoughts on this. Tegger, Socalmike, Michael > Pardee, JT, Curly (among other regulars)? > I tried brushes once on my POV; lasted 6 months, Just replace the alt (If needed) -- Stephen W. Hansen ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician ASE Automobile Advanced Engine Performance ASE Undercar Specialist http://autorepair.about.com/cs/troub...l_obd_main.htm http://www.troublecodes.net/technical/ http://www.familycar.com/Alignment.htm |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
> > No, not necessarily. ISTM the labor it takes to do just the brushes can > approach the total cost of replacing the whole alternator. > > Other parts go bad on alternators, just not as often. > > ISTM a car kept 20 years should need at least one alternator replacement > in the course of those 20 years. > > If one is a do-it-yourselfer and has the time, then doing just the brushes > makes sense. This is not so for someone who doesn't work much on cars and > wants a repair that will (1) last; (2) not lead to throwing good money > after bad. > > This is my rough impression, based on only one personal alternator > experience, a little exploration on brushes, and a lot of reading. I am > really not sure how often independent shops are willing to do 'just the > brushes.' Look for others' thoughts on this. Tegger, Socalmike, Michael > Pardee, JT, Curly (among other regulars)? > I tried brushes once on my POV; lasted 6 months, Just replace the alt (If needed) -- Stephen W. Hansen ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician ASE Automobile Advanced Engine Performance ASE Undercar Specialist http://autorepair.about.com/cs/troub...l_obd_main.htm http://www.troublecodes.net/technical/ http://www.familycar.com/Alignment.htm |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
> > No, not necessarily. ISTM the labor it takes to do just the brushes can > approach the total cost of replacing the whole alternator. > > Other parts go bad on alternators, just not as often. > > ISTM a car kept 20 years should need at least one alternator replacement > in the course of those 20 years. > > If one is a do-it-yourselfer and has the time, then doing just the brushes > makes sense. This is not so for someone who doesn't work much on cars and > wants a repair that will (1) last; (2) not lead to throwing good money > after bad. > > This is my rough impression, based on only one personal alternator > experience, a little exploration on brushes, and a lot of reading. I am > really not sure how often independent shops are willing to do 'just the > brushes.' Look for others' thoughts on this. Tegger, Socalmike, Michael > Pardee, JT, Curly (among other regulars)? > I tried brushes once on my POV; lasted 6 months, Just replace the alt (If needed) -- Stephen W. Hansen ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician ASE Automobile Advanced Engine Performance ASE Undercar Specialist http://autorepair.about.com/cs/troub...l_obd_main.htm http://www.troublecodes.net/technical/ http://www.familycar.com/Alignment.htm |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
Elle wrote:
>>the alternator has brobably never been replaced. I looked >>through my old invoices & couldn't find anyting, but as I >>said, there's only 62,000 miles on it, so probably the >>brushes haven't been replaced >>I'll call them tomorrow am and ask about all this. If they >>do say I need a new Alternator, do you think that's a rip >>off? > > > No, not necessarily. ISTM the labor it takes to do just the > brushes can approach the total cost of replacing the whole > alternator. How do you figure? Labor to re&re the alternator either is the same either way... new brushes are about $5 and should take about 15 minutes to swap in... and on some cars, a nimble mechanic could change the brushes without needing to fully remove the alternator (like my '87 Accord where actually removing the thing from the car requires a degree in acrobatics). > Other parts go bad on alternators, just not as often. Going again from my '87, the voltage regulator module has to come out to replace the brushes, and removing the diode pack takes three nuts, four bolts, and 30 seconds more. Total time to actually replace everything but the windings shouldn't exceed 30 minutes. What's the cost of new regulator, brushes and diodes, vs. a complete new alternator? It's GOTTA be more than the value half an hour's labor. And again, with the '87 Accord, all this CAN be done without actually removing the alt from the car. |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
Elle wrote:
>>the alternator has brobably never been replaced. I looked >>through my old invoices & couldn't find anyting, but as I >>said, there's only 62,000 miles on it, so probably the >>brushes haven't been replaced >>I'll call them tomorrow am and ask about all this. If they >>do say I need a new Alternator, do you think that's a rip >>off? > > > No, not necessarily. ISTM the labor it takes to do just the > brushes can approach the total cost of replacing the whole > alternator. How do you figure? Labor to re&re the alternator either is the same either way... new brushes are about $5 and should take about 15 minutes to swap in... and on some cars, a nimble mechanic could change the brushes without needing to fully remove the alternator (like my '87 Accord where actually removing the thing from the car requires a degree in acrobatics). > Other parts go bad on alternators, just not as often. Going again from my '87, the voltage regulator module has to come out to replace the brushes, and removing the diode pack takes three nuts, four bolts, and 30 seconds more. Total time to actually replace everything but the windings shouldn't exceed 30 minutes. What's the cost of new regulator, brushes and diodes, vs. a complete new alternator? It's GOTTA be more than the value half an hour's labor. And again, with the '87 Accord, all this CAN be done without actually removing the alt from the car. |
Re: update on emergency brake warning light
Elle wrote:
>>the alternator has brobably never been replaced. I looked >>through my old invoices & couldn't find anyting, but as I >>said, there's only 62,000 miles on it, so probably the >>brushes haven't been replaced >>I'll call them tomorrow am and ask about all this. If they >>do say I need a new Alternator, do you think that's a rip >>off? > > > No, not necessarily. ISTM the labor it takes to do just the > brushes can approach the total cost of replacing the whole > alternator. How do you figure? Labor to re&re the alternator either is the same either way... new brushes are about $5 and should take about 15 minutes to swap in... and on some cars, a nimble mechanic could change the brushes without needing to fully remove the alternator (like my '87 Accord where actually removing the thing from the car requires a degree in acrobatics). > Other parts go bad on alternators, just not as often. Going again from my '87, the voltage regulator module has to come out to replace the brushes, and removing the diode pack takes three nuts, four bolts, and 30 seconds more. Total time to actually replace everything but the windings shouldn't exceed 30 minutes. What's the cost of new regulator, brushes and diodes, vs. a complete new alternator? It's GOTTA be more than the value half an hour's labor. And again, with the '87 Accord, all this CAN be done without actually removing the alt from the car. |
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