So here is the issue: About 5 months ago the alternator in my ’94 Disco 1 went bad. I purchased a new one, installed it, and all was well until last week when my mechanic replaced the serpentine drive belt as part of some other routine maintenance. Now I have some unusual symptoms related to the alternator.
First, the tachometer does not always work. Usually upon start-up the tach needle will jump, but then fall back to zero. If I run or drive the vehicle for a few minutes the tach will begin to operate normally. We have checked for a loose tach wire at the back of the alternator but that appears fine.
Second, the alternator appears to be charging normally as no warning light appears on the dash.
Third, occasionally, the alternator will emit a high pitched ‘squeal’. This only seems to occur when accelerating the engine/vehicle and it does not ‘squeal’ when the tach has resumed operating. We have checked for belt slippage but believe that is not the case, especially when considering the new belt.
The only conclusion we have come up with is that the new alternator is on its ‘way-out’ and that it’s only a matter of time before another replacement will be necessary.
Now to my request for help: Has anyone else experienced symptoms like these? What might I be overlooking?
First, the tachometer does not always work. Usually upon start-up the tach needle will jump, but then fall back to zero. If I run or drive the vehicle for a few minutes the tach will begin to operate normally. We have checked for a loose tach wire at the back of the alternator but that appears fine.
Second, the alternator appears to be charging normally as no warning light appears on the dash.
Third, occasionally, the alternator will emit a high pitched ‘squeal’. This only seems to occur when accelerating the engine/vehicle and it does not ‘squeal’ when the tach has resumed operating. We have checked for belt slippage but believe that is not the case, especially when considering the new belt.
The only conclusion we have come up with is that the new alternator is on its ‘way-out’ and that it’s only a matter of time before another replacement will be necessary.
Now to my request for help: Has anyone else experienced symptoms like these? What might I be overlooking?
