1G Another Alternator and Water Pump Thread.....

[dspecv]

Got a 91GSX, and it had been sitting for a few months b/c I needed to fix the water pump, which I have more questions on below. Anyways, the battery was naturally dead since it's been colder than crap this winter. I tried charging for a couple days, but it wasn't holding a charge, so I put a new battery in it 2 days ago. Now, when I run the car, it will start, however, every time I hit the brakes, the ABS starts to engage while the ABS light comes on, then flickers. Also, my other lights, along with CEL light up, and the accessories don't work well, or are very slow. Also, my stereo hasn't powered on since I've done this either. I'm assuming the alternator is not charging the battery as it should, and I will be checking the voltage tonight if I can. Does this sound like normal alternator problems? Also, my belts have begun squeeling as well, but is off and on and I'm guessing related to the alternator issue.

Another problem I'm having is the pulley on what looks like the water pump is wobbling quite a bit, and you can hear it making a clunking noise when the engine is running. Would it be safe to assume that I need to replace the water pump? I've had this car for awhile, but haven't had to do much wrenching on it until now, so I have quite a few questions.

Also, it looks like my power steering pump may be leaking a bit onto the alternator, would that cause alternator problems also?

Sorry for all the questions, and any help is appreciated.

 

[yokotabrat]

Your symptoms sound similar to what I've experienced with alternator failures. Definitely check the voltage at the battery.

The water pump pulley should not be wobbling. Either it was installed incorrectly, or the water pump has gone bad.

Another thing to check would be the crank pulley. Make sure that hasn't separated as that can cause perceived alternator failures as well.

Definitely fix the power steering pump leak. Leaking fluid into the alternator is never a good thing and will kill a new alternator in no time. Typically, the orings on the top connection are what go bad as they get brittle over time. You can buy a kit from the dealer that includes all the orings. It's an easy install. Hope this helps.

 

[dspecv]

I'm guessing the kit shouldn't be too hard to put in since you've already got the pump off for the alternator install right?

 

[yokotabrat]

Your talking about the oring replacement for the power steering pump right?

It's been a while since I've done it, but from what I remember, I didn't even remove the power steering pump to replace the orings. Just had to remove the bottom connection then undo the nut on the top hose connection and it just pulls up off the shaft. There were 2 orings on there from what I remember. Both came out apart in pieces when I removed them because they were so brittle. With the alternator out, it's even easier because you don't have to worry about covering the alternator so you don't get more fluid in it.

 

[Wizeman76]

I'd suggest getting a voltage reading whilst the car is running. If its around 14 volts then the alternator is working fine. If not then the alternator belt could be loose - you did mention that it squeals sometimes - this is definatly a sign that the alternator isn't charging the battery - tighten that belt, really tight because the tightness adversly effects the output voltage of that alternator, leading to the accessories not functioning. Then again it could be that the alternator is bad, especially if its the original.
You could pull it out of the vehicle and drain all the power steering fluid that could be gargaling around inside it. It's never a good thing when the alternator is drenched in anything. Mind you, when I changed my P/S fluid, it got all over the alternator and still works great. Make sure that the P/S pump hoses are securley bolted down and aren't leaking, those hoses could be on their way out.
Oh and that water pump is probably gone, I'd replace it asap.

 

[dspecv]

Big thanks to you Wizeman76. I ended up finding the fusible link that you mentioned, and that was the problem. I would never have thought of that! You saved me a ton of time and money there. I appreciate all the help guys.