Running alternator disconnected

w.michael

w.michael

Senior Member
If I run the car with alternator disconnected from the wiring harness, will it damage the alternator?

I know that if I run a generator while disconnected (or if the cutout fails to close) it will damage the generator. I just don't know what it will do to an alternator.

W. Michael
 
The voltage regulator should keep the alternator at a safe voltage level, but I still wouldn't run it disconnected unless you had to in some emergency.
 
Thanks, Tom. That is what happened--the alternator suddenly pegged the ammeter at full charge and the wires started smoking. (Battery had shorted out, I think.) I disconnected the alternator and drove a short distance home, apparently without damage. Just wondering what to do if something similar happens again.

W. Michael
 
if youve got smoking wires the damage is already done. i would disconnect the battery and check every inch of wire before driving it again...

the ammeter pegged because you had a direct short to ground that was running thru the ammeter...
 
Already checked all wires and connections, and all seem OK. I caught this very quickly when it happened.

W. Michael
 
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