Cold Weather Alternator Problems?

[Errant]

When cold out, my tach sits at zero until the engine has warmed up. When really cold out, tach sits at zero, speedo bottoms out or jumps around, SRS and ABS lights come on, stereo cuts in and out. This sounds like an alternator issue, but why does it happen only when cold? Could it be something else (hopefully less expensive)?

This is my 98 Disco I with 60K. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Sergei]

I'd start with checking for corroded/loosy contacts, if you truly feel its electrical.

When cold metal is shrinking and as it expands with heat - you may be regaining contact that overwise is lost due corrosion.. J

 

[Hoot]

i was having some serious alternator issues and battery probs, i started poking around looking at the battery leads and i found that the poistive lead coming off the battery and going into the fuse box was causing the problems. Take the cover off the fuse box and then pop the platics cover off that covers the leads and check your positive lead connection it will the the one at the front of the fuse box closest the pasenger side fender. look to see if it is loos, corrodded etc... this may not be your problem but it will only take you 5 minutes to check it.

 

[Errant]

I had the alternator and battery tested at the local garage today. Battery is fine but I'm told the alternator isn't charging. I'd prefer to replace it with a new one, rather than manufactured. Was thinking of getting a Mean Green, since it's high output would be better with the Hella's and fog lights. Anyone know where the best deal is (I'm soooo broke right now)? Or do you have better alternator options?

 

[Sergei]

MG best online price is 349$.. However you will need longer belt - about 40-50$ to that price. Its about equal to price of new MagnettiMarelli one (100A good stock replacement). Alternatively you can find 90A one for around (or tad below) 200$ which is direct replacement too (kills me but i cant remember brand. It was found in parts book in local shop).

There was one other high output replacement that been posted on Dweb a while ago, but it did look like rather fishy place.

 

[Errant]

Mean Green closed up shop for the week to attend the SEMA convention in Las Vegas I really don't want to wait 7-10 days for an alternator. Anyone know where I can get a new (not rebuilt) one sooner?