Hi Preston,
Bearings can be checked while running the engine stationary.
Open the hood and take a long big size screwdriver.
Hold the metal end to the housing of the alternator and the other end near
your ear against your head.
Bad bearing noises are immediately transported to your ear.
Another check in your case is to check the belt wear.
A worn belt still may cause an alternator to slip.
Faint glow also maybe caused by:
warn brushes and/or brush rotor rings
diode failure
Choosing for an overhaul or a swap unit, I'd opt for an overhaul.
I've heard to many stories about replacement / swap units, which fail soon
after taken in use.
Have this job done at a car electrics specialist repair shop - I think it's
worth while.
Cheers,
Hans
'71 BGT with still original but overhauled alternator
----- Original Message -----
From: "Betti Ann & Preston Smith" <prsmith@ns.sympatico.ca>
To: "MG List" <mgs@autox.team.net>
Sent: Thursday, July 22, 2004 4:14 PM
Subject: Alternator on way out?
> 1980 MGB LE
>
> The ignition light has a faint glow. After tightening the belt it is
> still there at times (not as often) and the alternator has a high
> pitched whine.
>
> I assume the whine is attributed to the bearings going - does the faint
> ignition light suggest I should be looking for a rebuilt alternator?
>
> How can I test the alternator's output?
>
> If I need a rebuilt do I need a MGB alternator or can other units do the
> job with minimum fuss and bother?
>
> Thanks
> Preston
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