View Full Version : alternator/battery replacement?
K2JJB
09-15-2007, 01:02 PM
Hi all, thanks to those who replied about things to look for on an '02 TB... I have been going through the vehicle (we are looking to buy it soon)... so far so good.
Only thing was when were out for a drive I noted that it sounds like there is a whine coming from the engine (RPM dependent) and I suspected the alternator. Shorltly there after the batter light came on and the system was below 12V (as per the gauge on the dash). A forced downshift and the RPM came up and then the voltage came up a little and the light went off...
So, bad battery? or bad alternator? For those that have replaced the alternator on one of these before... how hard was it.
:thx
-JB
bgj76
09-15-2007, 01:34 PM
The whine noise is a Common problem my extended war picked it up it was a belt tensioner. 12V on the Gauge is definitly low mine runs about 14 to 15
GL
RayVoy
09-15-2007, 05:29 PM
So, bad battery? or bad alternator? For those that have replaced the alternator on one of these before... how hard was it.
-JB
Could be either. Don't overlook the belt, could be slipping, but ur problem is prolly the alt. I would have them tested.
I haven't had the alt off these vehicles, but most GMs come out without a lot of trouble. I suspect these would as well.
rmac694203
09-15-2007, 05:45 PM
I haven't changed the alt. on the TB, but if memory serves me it's right on top and would be cake to change. You may want to get the alt. and battery tested, because if the alt goes bad it can take the battery with it.
LOWRIT00
09-15-2007, 05:53 PM
I haven't changed the alt. on the TB, but if memory serves me it's right on top and would be cake to change. You may want to get the alt. and battery tested, because if the alt goes bad it can take the battery with it.
:iagree:
but maybe you could get the seller to get it replaced the bat and alt. before you buy
K2JJB
09-15-2007, 05:58 PM
:iagree:
but maybe you could get the seller to get it replaced the bat and alt. before you buy
yeah, I would be looking to get a discount for the cost of the parts (I would put them on myself)... it is a friend selling it and I am still getting a good deal on the vehicle. However, it is likely cheaper for him to let me fix it than take it to a shop :)
K2JJB
09-15-2007, 07:13 PM
I pulled the belt off and the tensioner seems OK (the bearing might be a little tight) but the alternator squeeks when you turn it by hand... so I think that really might be it.
rmac694203
09-15-2007, 08:14 PM
Just don't buy an alt. from Autozone. They are junk.
K2JJB
09-16-2007, 04:39 PM
Thanks to all that took the time to reply. I managed to do a little more diagnostic and found that the battery was fine. I got the alternator replaced in the vehicle and all seems to be normal (the guy selling it is happy as can be that I was able to repair it for a lot less than a shop :) ). Looks like we will be getting a "new to us" TB soon...
LOWRIT00
09-17-2007, 12:19 AM
nice! glad you found the problem, and it wasnt too bad of a fix. dont forget to post pics of your new buy! :thumbsup: