My wife's 02 Tahoe has similar dips in power, but not to the point of stalling. It was the belt tensioner. What the other have said seems more probable, but just another option if those turn out ok.
Alternator problem????
- Thread starter Purpledoggy
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Purpledoggy
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So I have another question. If I get a new alternator apparently there is a 105 amp one and a 145 amp one that fit my vehicle. Which one should I get? Does it matter?
Does matter. Look at the casing of the alternator and you should see it etched in the metal. Typically can see even when mounted on vehicle.
---------- Post added at 10:05 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:04 AM ----------
May have to use finger/thumb and spit to clean and see or the girls way of using a damp cloth to wipe clean!
---------- Post added at 10:05 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:04 AM ----------
May have to use finger/thumb and spit to clean and see or the girls way of using a damp cloth to wipe clean!
Purpledoggy
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Where on the alternator does it tell you which it is? I'm guessing it's hidden under the engine cover because I couldn't find it.
It should be engraved right on top. Like others have mentioned it is probably covered in dirt. Being it is a denali it most likely has the 145 or 160 amp. Both the 145 and 160 use the longer belt. the 125 has the smaller belt. I'd be cautious to test the alternator the old school way of pulling the battery cable while running the engine. I've heard you could fry your computer like this on the newer more sophisticated cars.
---------- Post added at 01:42 AM ---------- Previous post was at 01:39 AM ----------
yes 105 will not be enough amps when you have all accessories running. the voltage will drop considerably.
---------- Post added at 01:42 AM ---------- Previous post was at 01:39 AM ----------
yes 105 will not be enough amps when you have all accessories running. the voltage will drop considerably.
Like I said, the number should be etched in the case of the alternator housing on a flat area that is exposed and will be dirty in all likelihood. It will not stand out like black lettering on white. It is just etched in to the aluminum and will help if you have a flashlight.
Purpledoggy
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I wiped off the top of the alternator but didn't see a number. I found the parts code in the glove box and found out it has a 145amp alternator. I'm going to try and mess with it all when I get off of work tomorrow morning. Let's hope I can manage to fix my problem lol!
If you never find that etched amp rating, guarantee it is there if original alternator, then the alternator was changed before and the rebuilder of the alternator that was changed out to never installed the same case back on the alternator when rebuilt. But as I said, it is there if is the original alternator. Do you have the serpentine belt tool or any tools to relieve the belt tension with the belt tensioner to allow the belt removal for access to alternator? You will need that and then the tools to remove/replace the alternator with. Suggest you disconnect the battery before removing the alternator wiring. Make sure the electrical connector is clean before plugging back in to new alternator.
Purpledoggy
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I use my dad's garage and his tools. This will be the third alternator I've replaced in my life. One from my mustang and one from my camry. I'm not worried about actually replacing it I was worried that it might not be the problem.
Good luck. Sounds like you have the experience part down pat.
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