60 Amp Alternator Adjustment Warning

[doghead]

I recently loosened alternator belts on my M35a2(was gonna remove them and swing the alternator down to install a heater hose petcock in the water pump). I loosened the adjustment bolt in the slotted bracket. I then, reached down and felt the rear lower pivot bolt and it was loose. I assumed the front lower pivot bolt was loose also and went ahead and lifted the alternator to remove the belts then swung it down to gain access to the drain plug on the water pump. As I moved it down by hand, with nearly no effort, I heard a snap sound(you know that sickening sound). I had just broken the front pivot bolt mounting tab. So, we all know we should never assume anything, but I simply was lazy and did not check that front lower bolt(I really though I would feel some resistance if it was not loose, like the rear bolt was). Oh well. Just wanted to mention it to you guys, maybe it will save one person the aggravation I have made for myself.

Here's a few pictures of the alternator damage. It does look like an easy repair, if I can find just the front housing for this alternator. It's a Prestolite. NSN 2920-00-909-2483. Anyone have a stash of bad alts or know of a good inexpensive source?

 

[emmado22]

Weld it.

 

[doghead]

I may get it welded. I currently do not have the capacity to weld aluminum here at home.

 

[319]

I may get it welded. I currently do not have the capacity to weld aluminum here at home.

I think something like that would be well worth the investment to have it professionally welded.

 

[FormerNewMVGuy]

I do have a bad one of those, It is at my friends shop,If you want I'll bring it to the mta show for you.

 

[emmado22]

One word of caution with the 60 amper's.. There are SEVERAL that all have the same NSN, but are different mechanically/internally. If your getting a donor, make sure it is the same exact model/part #. You cant go by just NSN..

 

[doghead]

That is correct E22! if you look at the pictures, you can see mine has the fan"open" in the center. That's a good way to id this one.

Scott, I may take you up on that offer. I'll see if I can find the case still, and let you know before the show. thx

 

[jatonka]

DH, If you wanna drive over my way, My welder will fix it. I did it too, couple years ago. JT