Alternator Question

Rusty S

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Oct 17, 2011
Messages
32
I have a 2002 5.7L GXI-C and was on the water Saturday. Everything has been running great, all gauges within spec, etc.
Typically I always boat at a leisurely pace and other than hole shots the motor isn't run over 3400-3700rpm.
Was a nice day with flat water so I decided to open her up for a second. She comes up rather easily and being the GXI I'm pretty sure it is rated for 5200 rpm. I have never had it that high; on this occasion it ran up to 4700-4800 and I heard some mild screeching/whistling thinking it might be the famous Volvo fuel pump; then I looked at my amp gauge and it was pegged to the right and my hummingbird had a high voltage warning on the screen.
I brought her back down and had to limp in at an idle so the amp gauge would not go over 13-14 volts.

This is the 2nd time since owning the boat that this has happened; both times with a remanufactured unit.I'm guessing it's the voltage regulator biting the dust, but what would cause the higher rpm's to make this occur? Do I have a bigger problem, or is it a matter of less than OEM quality not being capable to handle the GXI?
 

Rusty S

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Oct 17, 2011
Messages
32
Any opinions out there on this?
Since original posting I have taken alternator to a reman shop and found out these can't be re-build due to parts non-availability.
They also advised me the non-OEM units build and part quality are very much less quality and consequently less durable=less dependable. Not a good thing for boats....Thank you China!
I'm suspecting this being my problem and will more than likely step up and purchase an OEM unit to be assured of trouble-free operation.
 

Glastron_V210

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Jan 28, 2009
Messages
324
Vreg for sure, end of story.

I'm not sure about the rebuild quality etc.

Sometimes there are MARINE rebuilders out there. They would know if you are being fed a line of bs.

Many have used "Ebay DB Electrical". I'd check them out. supposedly good prices/quality/service.


Chay
 
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