Alternator squeal

[keith.potter]

I'm a bit worried because the alternator on my 230te has started to squeal. It only seems to be the shaft bearing because if I spray WD40 on it, it stops squealing for a short time. Even oiling the shaft only stops the noise for a short time. I'm driving from Birmingham to Sardinia next week, do you think it's going to let me down, can just the bearing be changed or should I take a spare alternator just in case?

 

[guydewdney]

I'd grab a spare from a scrap yard.... and the tools necessary. and a spare fan belt - if the bearing siezes, it will destroy the belt in about a nanosecond

 

[maddog]

I had the same problem with my Mercedes Sprinter everytime it started to get a little noisy i would spray it with WD40 but when it failed the front of the alternator fell to bits and was irreparable. Luckily i was only driving slowly as the drive wheel came off and went flying down the road and could have caused a lot of damage.

I would swap it over before you go and fit a new belt at the same time.

 

[keith.potter]

Adice noted

I'm taking your advice and buying a new alternator and fan belt in the morning. I have emailed Warranty Holdings to see if they will pay for it! I have heard that they are not a very good insurance company to get money out of - watch this space.
Thanks to both of you for your help.
Keith

 

[Andy]

Hi

I am glad you have taken the advice offered & replaced a known problem before you set of on a major journey. Especially when they don't speak English.

As for WHA. Like any insurance company. If they can find a way out they will. In this case as long as the servicing has been carried out according to there normal practice.Ie every 6months or 6k which ever is sooner by a vat registered garage. Then I think they will tell you no chance as the part as not failed. Since the insurace is a mechanical breakdown insurance. By the sound of it it has not failed as yet.

You never know. They may be lenient.

Good luck


Regards

Andy@ www.mercedesservicing.com

 

[keith.potter]

Phoned the insurance company and they will pay, which is a surprize, because as you quite rightly pointed out, it hasn't failed yet. I have offered to fit it myself, which will save them money on garage labour charges.
I have been going to Sardinia in old cars for ten years and broke down once, when I needed towing in. There were two other occasions when I needed a repair and found the garages or mechanics really helpful and cheaper than at home.
Keith