Alternator Or Battery

[antonio69er]

Hi there, when I start my car and its cold or its hasnt been driven in a few hours i get a squeeling noise for about 10secs. My mate got me to start it and he unplugged the plug connected to the alternator and the squeel stopped but when he plugged it back in again in started to squeel for a bit then stop and run fine. It doesnt do this noise when driving only on startup. All the belts are tight also. My car is a R33 Gtst. Has anyone else had this problem as Im not sure whether its my battery maybe or my alternator. If it is my alternator does anyone know a place on the coast that sells alternators for skylines and a rough price on how much they are? Thanks in advance

Edited March 18, 2007 by antonio69er

[cowie165]

The good news is that you don't need a new battery or alternator.

The tension on your fan belt is incorrect. It probably needs a little tighten. My R32 did exactly the same thing and retensioning the belt fixed it. If you have a voltmeter, you'll notice that it squeals until the system voltage stabilises at 14V.

To adjust the tension, there will be a small bolt at the top of the alternator. I think there is another at the bottom. Loosen both. Adjust the position of the top bolt until the tension is set correctly. Tighten both bolts. Check tension. Start motor. Viola.

FYI: Used RB alternators are around $90

[BHDave]

As you mentioned the belt is tensioned up i'd suggest your's is a bit old and hard and needs to be replaced.

The squeal stopped as you removed the load from the alternator by unplugging it so it just spun freely.

[antonio69er]

Belts have all been changed and are new. I took it back to the place you changed them and they have said that they are all tight.

[Fixxxer]

I had all mine changed recently, and one started to slip on start-up. I tightened it up more (since they probably stretch a little the first time you put them on) and it's gone away now (only once in a blue moon will it make the slightest squeel noise on start-up). I think some belts are just better than others.....

Fixxxer

[antonio69er]

Thanks for all your help I think i got the problem sorted