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Needed
Anything and everything Spitfire.
Section : Electrical Equipment
Alternators, dynamos, lights, wipers, etc.
Posted By : James Holladay, 07-Jan-2006,
09:49pm
My spitfire 1500's engine has recently developed a whining noise. At first I assumed that this was due to a slightly loose drive belt. I duly tightened
this up and checked for slippage (none).The noise remains however and appears to be emanating from the alternator. It appears to be rev related but
occasionally disappears entirely and I have no problem starting or running the car. I have now exhausted my limited mechanical knowledge and before taking
it to a garage, would be very grateful indeed for any suggestions as to what the hell it could be! Could it for instance be the water pump - is that close
by the alternator?
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Posted By : Colin Lindsay, 07-Jan-2006,
10:33pm
Sounds like the bearings are on the way out in the alternator, in which case tightening it will only make it worse.
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Posted By : Stephen Pratt, 08-Jan-2006,
02:58pm
I agree with Colin - I had a similar problem with my 1500, which got so bad that I was convinced the timing gear was knackered - until I listened
closely to the engine using the tried and trusted method of the long handled screwdriver and ear! A replacement alternator cured it -
£29.50 from SOC Autoparts.
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Posted By : David Rumens, 08-Jan-2006,
03:49pm
75% of the time the noise this time of year is due to corrosion on the pulleys and a worn fanbelt. A quick check is to spray some WD40 on each pulley,
if the noise stops then that's the cause. The problem is also found on the Toledo and 1300/1500 Dolomites. To cure - Clean up the pulleys and replace
the fan belt.
It may not be the cause in your case but it is worth a try as I have seen many an alternator change in the past for no reason.
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Posted By : James Holladay, 08-Jan-2006,
07:09pm
Thanks guys. I seem to sort out one problem and another appears. Spitfire's must be the automotive equivalent of painting the Forth Bridge.