I just think it is odd that my alternotor is going bad so soon. Is there a way to test it, With a vot meter? I dont know what is wrong really. My lights go dim, battery light comes on. It has a new battery, so I know it is not that.

Does the alternator have its own ground wire?

TIA

 

You can go to Autozone and get it tested. But the alternator should be replaced I think at 60-70,000 miles. Check your manual.

 

my friends 88 civic has 243,000 miles on it and he's still using the same alternator. i didnt know you had to replace em after 60-70k??

 

me either, are they hard to replace? on a 01 civic

 

Should be in your MANUAL

 

I dont have a manual

 

my lights go bright when im higher rpm or load. and go dim on the opposite.

i really need to get off my ass and test the alternator and see whats up

im also in the 90k area

 

its an electric part there is no general life span, its like tv's and stuff one could last forever and the next one could last 50,000 miles

go to autozone and get it tested, but it could just as well be loose or worn cables or connectors ( battery cables, connectors, alternator wires, starter cables

 

I also am having an intermittent problem with mine. It's got 35-40K on it. The first one lasted around 250K. When it does go out make sure to get a lifetime warranty part. It's not that tough to change if the long bolt isn't frozen. Make sure to disconnect the battery! 10mm on the top wire of alt, disconnect the green plug. Then 12mm on the adjusting bolt. 17 and maybe 15 on bottom bolt. Pull the thing out from under the car. Makes it easier with the tire off. Life is much easier with a prybar when you go to tighten the belt. Good luck.

 

Mine went out at 141K.