Well, the clatter I mentioned a week ago turned out to be the alternator. About six months ago, it was making an awful rattle sound. Turned out the key had come loose or fallen out.

The tech repaired it and everything seemed fine. Now it sounds like it's happening again. I was just going to replace the alternator. But, when I looked at the Fast Lane parts catalog (which is awsome!) I saw they sell an alternator pulley.

Do you all think this would fix the problem for good or am I better off to replace it completely? It's my wife's car and she wants to feel safe.

Thanks

Mr. Bill,
All the rebuilt alternators I ever bought did not come with a pulley. I guess because some came with two grooves and some with one groove for the belts. I usually took the old one with me and Autozone or Advanced Auto would switch the pulley. No extra charge. They cost about $95-$100 with lifetime warranty and you don't need to keep your receipt. They keep a record on computer. So if you buy one Ky. and it goes out in Tn. the store there will give you a new one. This happened to me. Very friendly people.
Bill Lewallen Lexington,Ky. Where diesels purr and turbos whine.

Thanks! I wanted to get one from Parts Shop but, I need it today. I'm off to Advanced Auto Parts.

Good luck, if they will replace your alternator for life for $95, you can't beat it. Do they do this in the parking lot? When they screw up and take out your ABS and SRS controllers do they fix those in the parking lot also?

Mr Bill,
The Autozone store here in Lexington keep then in stock. The Advanced Auto store may not stock one,but they can have you one by the next day.
Mr Steve,
The auto stores do not install the alternator in their stores. They will switch the pulleys. They do that inside their store.The car owner has to remove and install the alternator. Lexington has an ordinance that says you can not work on your car in the street or in parking lots. We are an uppity town, and love our bluegrass, the horse farms with their white fences and their stone fences, and of course our fine Bourbon Whiskey.
Bill Lewallen Lexington,Ky. The Bluegrass State. Home of fast horses and pretty women.

Steve,

This is for my '85 300D, no ABS or SRS. I bought a Bosh rebilt one. As I said, I really wanted to get one from Parts Shop, because the price was great, but the Mrs. needs the car tomorrow to run the squids around so I couldn't wait.

They won't put it in for you but it does come with a plug of Red Man chewin' tabacca!






[Edited by Mr. BILL on 03-03-2001 at 11:42 PM]