Alternator question

[Ivanerrol]

Would a faulty alternator prevent the car from starting?

Should I be able to isolate the alternator cables and then start the car and keep it running on the battery alone?

Reason. Changed out radiator. Alternator has wonky bearing. While I had all that front end stuff off, I pulled alternator off to take it to repair shop to get quote for refurbishment. Due to some confusion over the specifics of my alternator I just put it back on the car as it was. Car will now not start - turns over wants to start - a few coughs etc but no go.

[cliffmac]

no, an alternator will not keep the car from starting...

[TMAllison]

Is it a '32 Ford?

[Ivanerrol]

Originally Posted by TMAllison

Is it a '32 Ford?

'89 W124 260e Japanese delivery.
Alternator obviously specially fitted for Japanese market. 90Amp.
Australian specced W124's either have 70 or 80Amp units.

[Ivanerrol]

Originally Posted by cliffmac

no, an alternator will not keep the car from starting...

Ugh Didn't want to know that. Obviously problem is something else

The alternator would not keep the car from starting as long as the battery is charged. You will have to recharge the battery after driving the car to keep it charged as energy is drained from it.

[Ivanerrol]

Obtained an exact copy alternator from a similar Japanese delivery wreck.

Can't start car yet. Battery is flat and on charge

[280EZRider]

The battery supplies current to all consumers of the electric system. The alternator just keeps the battery charged - nothing more.