Should I replace my alternator?

[Nivekt]

Boat info is in my signature.

I am beginning the partial disassembly of my engine in preparation for replacement. After I removed my alternator I decided that it needed cleaning and fresh paint. The alternator is an original part(Prestolite ALK 6222Y) but I do not know if it is THE original alt. Ive only owned the boat for 4 years. It works fine. I get a solid 14.4 volts measured at the battery at idle. According to the hour meter(which I do not trust) the engine only has around 400 hours on her. After taking it apart this is what I found:

Should I replace this alternator just to be safe or go ahead with the cleaning and put her back together?

 

[tpenfield]

Re: Should I replace my alternator?

If you think that the bearings, etc will go a while longer. I would go ahead and use it.

 

[airdvr1227]

Re: Should I replace my alternator?

If it ain't broke... I guess the question is could you get back to port on batteries alone?

 

[Howard Sterndrive]

Re: Should I replace my alternator?

looks almost new inside.. a little crocus cloth will polish up the slip rings.

 

[matt167]

Re: Should I replace my alternator?

I think you can buy an automotive rebuild kit of the correct type and put it in if you feel safer with a 'new' alternator. Rebuilding an alt is becoming uncommon, but the parts are available. That marine case is the $$$ part. Personally, I'd just polish the connections with crocus cloth and stick it back togther

 

[Nivekt]

Re: Should I replace my alternator?

Thanks for the feedback guys. I guess I just think its worse than it is because of the build up inside. Ill get some crocus cloth and clean it up and dust/wipe out all the carbon and soot build up as well.