Altenator?

[r32line]

I need some help.

Driving my car the other day, my battery light came on. Upon noticing this I immediately checked the voltage gauge which read just under 12 volts unlike the usual 14. The further I drove I noticed the car was losing power and not revving out right (mind you I was shifting no later than 3,000rpm at this point). I got to my destination and left 3 hours later. Now the voltage was down to 10. The 4WD light came on indicating it had shut down, then power steering died and the engine just after.

The tow truck driver connected a jumper kit and left it on and I could drive it onto the back of the truck. I got home, took the battery off and put it on charge. I just connected it now after it was fully charged and the car started but the voltage is just below 12, and again the battery light is on.

My understanding is that a battery produces 12volts and when connected to the car that is running, the alternator allows the battery output to increase to 14volts. Therefore the only explanation is my alternator is dead?

So my questions are:

1. Can someone who knows what they are talking about could confirm the above?

2. Can I replace the alternator with an alternator out of an R33 or R34 GTR?

3. Would I be best to get a new one from Nissan, and if so how much am I up for?

4. Labour wise I am assuming the radiator and some of the belts will have to come off, but that looks like it?

Thank you in advance

[samuri]

I had a similar problem on a different car and in my case it was just a failed voltage regulator.

i just throw that into the mix until you get an informed response.

[r32line]

I had a similar problem on a different car and in my case it was just a failed voltage regulator.

i just throw that into the mix until you get an informed response.

Hmmm, Interesting. I didn't even know there was such a thing.

The other thing with my issue is when it first happened and the voltage was down to 12ish as I said, but at the next set of lights it came back to 14 and the battery light went off... but a minute later the light came back on and the volt gauge read 12ish again, from then on it got worse.

But my issue definitely was taking power out of the battery, did you have the same in your case?

Edited July 21, 2010 by r32line

[r32line]

*edit - repost deleted

Edited July 21, 2010 by r32line

[r32line]

Anyone else that can add any light?

[r32line]

well it turns out I was right, it was the alternator... trying to find a replacement though has NOT been fun.

[MrStabby]

I got a full rebuild for $380.... did the R&R myself, but its not that difficult.

The regulator was inside the alternator on my one.