We accept Paypal
In Business
Since 2001
Introduction
Audio
 
This text will be replaced by the flash music player.
Owned by Bill Platt (405) 385-7038
Home for Writers for Publishers Article Directory Article Search
Buy Our Services
Article Distribution
Article Ghost Writing
Article Marketing Ebook
Site Navigation
Home
+ Contact Us

   Email Us

   or Call Us at:
   (405) 385-7038

+ Ebooks
+ Blogs
+ Social Media
+ About Us
+ Extra Pages
Search Tools
+ Search Our Articles
Article Directory
+ Authors
+ Articles
thePhantomWriters Blog
Get RSS Feed

Are You Paying Too Much For Traffic? Increase Clicks 40-Fold With This PPC Strategy
How To Use Disinformation To Foul Up Your Competition In The SEO Game
Tips For Writing Your Own Articles
2009 Has Been A Rough Ride
Out of Office 11-17 to 11-19 for Funeral and Meeting with Attorneys
Larry Platt of Ponca City, Oklahoma Passed Away This Morning (11-13-09) After A Long Illness
Out of Office 11-02 to 11-11
What Kinds Of Backlinks Will Best Help Me Rank In Google?
Site Overhaul Coming In Next Couple Weeks
If You Fail To Believe In Article Marketing, You Will Fail To Succeed...
Other Sites We Own
Reputation Management SEO

Karma SEO Blog

Article Marketing Radio

Backlinks Magnet Wordpress Plugin

Free Twitter Stats Banner

Jobs and Paychecks

 

Don't Let Your Car's Alternator Leave You Stranded

Copyright (c) 2006-2010 Quinton Becker

 
An alternator is one of the most commonly dysfunctional auto parts. Without a properly functioning alternator, your car will simply refuse to run. A faulty alternator can leave you stranded, but luckily, a low-performing alternator often shows warning signs that indicate its malfunction before it ceases to work. Being able to recognize these warning signs, and knowing what to do next, may prevent you from getting caught in an inconvenient or dangerous situation.

One sign that your alternator is going bad is that the battery of your car will frequently go dead. Though there can be other causes for a dead battery, an underperforming alternator is often the case-this lack of a power source will prevent your battery from recharging. Another warning sign may be a metallic clanging that changes with your engine speed. Often, this indicates that the shaft bearing on the alternator is about to break. This is a relatively common problem with alternators that have been in use for a long time.

The best way to prevent being stranded by a bad alternator is by having it tested on a regular basis. It is recommended that you do so every time a tune-up is performed on your car-about once every year. If you drive your car more than the average person, you may want to have a tune-up or maintenance service completed more frequently. A technician can easily test the output of your alternator. If you suspect that yours is going bad or not charging your car properly, you can have it tested free of charge at many automotive parts stores. In most instances, mechanics can even test the alternator while it is still installed in your vehicle.

With the advancement of technology, a car's alternator is more important than ever. Taking a look at the newest cars on the market, many feature a wide variety of electronics; all of these require battery power to operate. The computer in a newer car needs power operate spark plugs, fuel pumps, and the engine, among other things. To illustrate how much pressure an alternator must handle, let's take a look at all of the mechanisms it must provide power to: digital gauges, headlights, stereo systems, in-car DVD players and televisions, just to name a few. All of these rely on the vehicle's alternator for power.

Older cars, such as a classic Austin Healey, do not place as much stress on their alternators. An older Austin Healey relied more on mechanical systems than electrical systems to operate, and therefore did not require as much electrical power to run.

If you like to do your own auto repair, and you have some experience with working on cars, then replacing your car's alternator may be a feasible process. The hardest step in completing this task is being able to access the mounting bolts. The difficulty of this varies with the year, make, and model of the vehicle that you are working on. Older cars often have the alternator in the front of the engine, toward the top, making for a very easy replacement. Newer vehicles, especially those with front-wheel drive, may not have such an accessible alternator. Front-wheel drive cars usually have the engine installed sideways, meaning there is little room to access the mounting bolts.

Whether or not you should pay a professional to replace your alternator is purely a matter of confidence in your own mechanical abilities. Don't forget that you will have to remove the serpentine belt in newer models. This may be a good opportunity to replace your serpentine (alternator) belt.

If you are experiencing electrical problems with your car, or if you frequently find yourself with a dead battery, then it is time to have your alternator tested. A faulty alternator may be the source of your problems.


About The Author:
Quinton Becker writes about cars, trucks and motorcycles. Quinton is one of many writers who contribute automotive information to: http://www.AutomotiveWebmasters.com - a website where you can uncover the lowest gasoline prices in your state, loads of automotive information, and a free gasoline savings tips ebook. Also for auto parts, please consider: http://www.drivewire.com

Follow "The Phantom Writers" on Twitter (@phantomwriters)
to be notified when new articles are made available.


VOTE ON THIS ARTICLE
Needs Work >> 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 << Excellent Article

Tell our authors what you think about their article.


Top-Level Category: Automotive Articles || Related Categories: Technology Articles and Shopping Articles

10 Most Recent Articles Written by Quinton Becker

What Are OEM Auto Parts? And Why Should They Be Considered?
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-11-24 | Word Count: 698 | Page Views: 1115 | Votes: 16 | Rating: 1.94
Purchasing OEM auto parts is an excellent way of ensuring that the replacement parts you buy will fit your car. OEM auto parts are particularly important if you own a high-performance automobile...

Understanding the Maintenance, Repair and Replacement of Ball Joints
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-11-18 | Word Count: 538 | Page Views: 7250 | Votes: 22 | Rating: 2.68
A ball joint is an important component of your car's suspension, located on the front end of the vehicle. Ball joints will wear out over time and cause handling problems as they continue to deteriorate. It is important that you have these joints inspected, particularly if you are experiencing handling problems with your vehicle.

The Three W's of Oxygen Sensors
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-11-11 | Word Count: 658 | Page Views: 1286 | Votes: 8 | Rating: 2.13
Unless you are an automobile mechanic or work around car parts, you probably do not know anything about oxygen sensors. Of course, the name itself gives a pretty big clue, but still leaves a lot to the imagination. The fact is, oxygen sensors are very important to the overall function of a vehicle. The following are what could be referred to as the three W's of oxygen sensors:

Taking Care of Your Car's Braking System Can Prevent Accidents
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-11-04 | Word Count: 616 | Page Views: 2107 | Votes: 14 | Rating: 1.86
A brake rotor is a vital part of the braking system on your vehicle. A brake rotor, in conjunction with brake pads, brings your car to come to a quick and complete stop. If you have a worn brake rotor, you should have it replaced as soon as possible for your own safety.

Low-Riders, Street Racers and Everyday Drivers Should Be Aware of the Camber in a Car's Suspension System
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-10-29 | Word Count: 721 | Page Views: 1072 | Votes: 8 | Rating: 3.13
The camber kit in your car's suspension system adjusts the angle of your tires, and increases the size of your tire footprint - how much of each tire comes into contact with the pavement. If you lower your car without installing a camber kit, there are some major handling problems that will arise. While street racers and low-rider buffs are the people who could use the camber kit most often, everyday drivers often consider it to be an economical safety improvement for their vehicles.

Do-It-Yourself With a Automotive Service Or Repair Manual
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-10-22 | Word Count: 809 | Page Views: 1243 | Votes: 8 | Rating: 1.50
It can be quite expensive to have your car in a mechanic's garage these days. Even fees for oil changes and tire rotations have increased dramatically over the years. One way to save money on these types of expenses is to buy the parts and tools needed and do the maintenance or make the repairs by yourself. Having the right manuals on hand will help you to handle those tasks with ease.

Do-It-Yourself Automotive Axle Assembly Repair Tips and Tricks
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-10-15 | Word Count: 619 | Page Views: 1599 | Votes: 15 | Rating: 2.80
Replacing an axle assembly is not as difficult as you may think. For front-wheel drive cars, and for some rear-wheel drive cars, this can be a do-it-yourself job. You will want to review the repair manual of your vehicle to decide, based on your own mechanical skill, whether you feel comfortable tackling this project yourself.

Brake Pads Are An Essential Element of Your Car's Safety Equipment
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-10-07 | Word Count: 626 | Page Views: 1144 | Votes: 10 | Rating: 3.10
Brake pads are an integral element of the braking system in a car. As you use your brakes in everyday driving, you will slowly wear down, and, eventually, need to replace the brake pads. Taking good care of your braking system will ensure the safety of you and your family as you drive.

Performance Parts Can Help With Better Horsepower Or Gas Mileage
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-10-02 | Word Count: 754 | Page Views: 1035 | Votes: 8 | Rating: 3.25
Performance parts are often better in quality than the factory replacement parts. The cost difference is generally minimal, and when you add in the fact that they outperform the factory replacement parts, it is really no contest.

Brush Guards Can Protect Cars and Trucks in Low-Impact Collisions
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-09-30 | Word Count: 649 | Page Views: 1291 | Votes: 9 | Rating: 2.44
It may seem like an odd addition to a passenger car that is until you stop to realize that most police departments use them on their cars as well. Brush guards protect cars and trucks from minor damages that might otherwise be sustained in a low-impact collision with a vehicle or a tree.

All of Author's Articles on this site: Quinton Becker Articles

Most Recent "Automotive" Articles

The Farmer's Best Friend-The Dump Trailer
Written by: Jim Farmer | Distributed: 2008-11-25 | Word Count: 406 | Page Views: 444 | Votes: 8 | Rating: 2.13
There are some fundamental truths about farming: It is arguable the most important industry in today's world, its time demanding and both physically and mentally challenging. So taking advantage of anything that helps in their day-to-day routine is critical for both profit and saving time.

What Are OEM Auto Parts? And Why Should They Be Considered?
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-11-24 | Word Count: 698 | Page Views: 1115 | Votes: 16 | Rating: 1.94
Purchasing OEM auto parts is an excellent way of ensuring that the replacement parts you buy will fit your car. OEM auto parts are particularly important if you own a high-performance automobile...

Eight Tips That Will Help You Choose the Right Equipment Trailer
Written by: Jim Farmer | Distributed: 2008-11-20 | Word Count: 906 | Page Views: 756 | Votes: 7 | Rating: 1.71
This article will list eight tips that will help you choose the right equipment trailer for you needs.

Understanding the Maintenance, Repair and Replacement of Ball Joints
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-11-18 | Word Count: 538 | Page Views: 7250 | Votes: 22 | Rating: 2.68
A ball joint is an important component of your car's suspension, located on the front end of the vehicle. Ball joints will wear out over time and cause handling problems as they continue to deteriorate. It is important that you have these joints inspected, particularly if you are experiencing handling problems with your vehicle.

The Three W's of Oxygen Sensors
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-11-11 | Word Count: 658 | Page Views: 1286 | Votes: 8 | Rating: 2.13
Unless you are an automobile mechanic or work around car parts, you probably do not know anything about oxygen sensors. Of course, the name itself gives a pretty big clue, but still leaves a lot to the imagination. The fact is, oxygen sensors are very important to the overall function of a vehicle. The following are what could be referred to as the three W's of oxygen sensors:

Taking Care of Your Car's Braking System Can Prevent Accidents
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-11-04 | Word Count: 616 | Page Views: 2107 | Votes: 14 | Rating: 1.86
A brake rotor is a vital part of the braking system on your vehicle. A brake rotor, in conjunction with brake pads, brings your car to come to a quick and complete stop. If you have a worn brake rotor, you should have it replaced as soon as possible for your own safety.

Low-Riders, Street Racers and Everyday Drivers Should Be Aware of the Camber in a Car's Suspension System
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-10-29 | Word Count: 721 | Page Views: 1072 | Votes: 8 | Rating: 3.13
The camber kit in your car's suspension system adjusts the angle of your tires, and increases the size of your tire footprint - how much of each tire comes into contact with the pavement. If you lower your car without installing a camber kit, there are some major handling problems that will arise. While street racers and low-rider buffs are the people who could use the camber kit most often, everyday drivers often consider it to be an economical safety improvement for their vehicles.

Brake Pads Are An Essential Element of Your Car's Safety Equipment
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-10-07 | Word Count: 626 | Page Views: 1144 | Votes: 10 | Rating: 3.10
Brake pads are an integral element of the braking system in a car. As you use your brakes in everyday driving, you will slowly wear down, and, eventually, need to replace the brake pads. Taking good care of your braking system will ensure the safety of you and your family as you drive.

Performance Parts Can Help With Better Horsepower Or Gas Mileage
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-10-02 | Word Count: 754 | Page Views: 1035 | Votes: 8 | Rating: 3.25
Performance parts are often better in quality than the factory replacement parts. The cost difference is generally minimal, and when you add in the fact that they outperform the factory replacement parts, it is really no contest.

Brush Guards Can Protect Cars and Trucks in Low-Impact Collisions
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-09-30 | Word Count: 649 | Page Views: 1291 | Votes: 9 | Rating: 2.44
It may seem like an odd addition to a passenger car that is until you stop to realize that most police departments use them on their cars as well. Brush guards protect cars and trucks from minor damages that might otherwise be sustained in a low-impact collision with a vehicle or a tree.

Most Viewed "Automotive" Articles

Understanding the Maintenance, Repair and Replacement of Ball Joints
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-11-18 | Word Count: 538 | Page Views: 7250 | Votes: 22 | Rating: 2.68
A ball joint is an important component of your car's suspension, located on the front end of the vehicle. Ball joints will wear out over time and cause handling problems as they continue to deteriorate. It is important that you have these joints inspected, particularly if you are experiencing handling problems with your vehicle.

Taking Care of Your Car's Braking System Can Prevent Accidents
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-11-04 | Word Count: 616 | Page Views: 2107 | Votes: 14 | Rating: 1.86
A brake rotor is a vital part of the braking system on your vehicle. A brake rotor, in conjunction with brake pads, brings your car to come to a quick and complete stop. If you have a worn brake rotor, you should have it replaced as soon as possible for your own safety.

Constant Reminders: Oil Change Stickers
Written by: Malcolm Uffelman | Distributed: 2008-06-09 | Word Count: 479 | Page Views: 1328 | Votes: 6 | Rating: 3.00
More than ever these days we are forced to take responsibility for our own welfare. As a symbol that little oil change decal is always there, every time we get behind the wheel. And it greets us with an important question: 'Hey is it time for service yet?'

Brush Guards Can Protect Cars and Trucks in Low-Impact Collisions
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-09-30 | Word Count: 649 | Page Views: 1291 | Votes: 9 | Rating: 2.44
It may seem like an odd addition to a passenger car that is until you stop to realize that most police departments use them on their cars as well. Brush guards protect cars and trucks from minor damages that might otherwise be sustained in a low-impact collision with a vehicle or a tree.

The Three W's of Oxygen Sensors
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-11-11 | Word Count: 658 | Page Views: 1286 | Votes: 8 | Rating: 2.13
Unless you are an automobile mechanic or work around car parts, you probably do not know anything about oxygen sensors. Of course, the name itself gives a pretty big clue, but still leaves a lot to the imagination. The fact is, oxygen sensors are very important to the overall function of a vehicle. The following are what could be referred to as the three W's of oxygen sensors:

Brake Pads Are An Essential Element of Your Car's Safety Equipment
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-10-07 | Word Count: 626 | Page Views: 1144 | Votes: 10 | Rating: 3.10
Brake pads are an integral element of the braking system in a car. As you use your brakes in everyday driving, you will slowly wear down, and, eventually, need to replace the brake pads. Taking good care of your braking system will ensure the safety of you and your family as you drive.

What Are OEM Auto Parts? And Why Should They Be Considered?
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-11-24 | Word Count: 698 | Page Views: 1115 | Votes: 16 | Rating: 1.94
Purchasing OEM auto parts is an excellent way of ensuring that the replacement parts you buy will fit your car. OEM auto parts are particularly important if you own a high-performance automobile...

Low-Riders, Street Racers and Everyday Drivers Should Be Aware of the Camber in a Car's Suspension System
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-10-29 | Word Count: 721 | Page Views: 1072 | Votes: 8 | Rating: 3.13
The camber kit in your car's suspension system adjusts the angle of your tires, and increases the size of your tire footprint - how much of each tire comes into contact with the pavement. If you lower your car without installing a camber kit, there are some major handling problems that will arise. While street racers and low-rider buffs are the people who could use the camber kit most often, everyday drivers often consider it to be an economical safety improvement for their vehicles.

How a Vehicle's Exhaust System Affects Its Power and Performance
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-09-25 | Word Count: 959 | Page Views: 1041 | Votes: 7 | Rating: 2.14
The stock exhaust on many cars is far more restrictive than it needs to be. Many years ago people seeking improved power and performance learned that they could achieve both by adding a larger, less restrictive exhaust system to their vehicle. Not only do new exhaust systems provide increased power, they can also generate that sound that many automotive enthusiasts like to hear from their vehicle.

Performance Parts Can Help With Better Horsepower Or Gas Mileage
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-10-02 | Word Count: 754 | Page Views: 1035 | Votes: 8 | Rating: 3.25
Performance parts are often better in quality than the factory replacement parts. The cost difference is generally minimal, and when you add in the fact that they outperform the factory replacement parts, it is really no contest.

Highest Ranked "Automotive" Articles

Performance Parts Can Help With Better Horsepower Or Gas Mileage
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-10-02 | Word Count: 754 | Page Views: 1035 | Votes: 8 | Rating: 3.25
Performance parts are often better in quality than the factory replacement parts. The cost difference is generally minimal, and when you add in the fact that they outperform the factory replacement parts, it is really no contest.

Low-Riders, Street Racers and Everyday Drivers Should Be Aware of the Camber in a Car's Suspension System
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-10-29 | Word Count: 721 | Page Views: 1072 | Votes: 8 | Rating: 3.13
The camber kit in your car's suspension system adjusts the angle of your tires, and increases the size of your tire footprint - how much of each tire comes into contact with the pavement. If you lower your car without installing a camber kit, there are some major handling problems that will arise. While street racers and low-rider buffs are the people who could use the camber kit most often, everyday drivers often consider it to be an economical safety improvement for their vehicles.

Brake Pads Are An Essential Element of Your Car's Safety Equipment
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-10-07 | Word Count: 626 | Page Views: 1144 | Votes: 10 | Rating: 3.10
Brake pads are an integral element of the braking system in a car. As you use your brakes in everyday driving, you will slowly wear down, and, eventually, need to replace the brake pads. Taking good care of your braking system will ensure the safety of you and your family as you drive.

Constant Reminders: Oil Change Stickers
Written by: Malcolm Uffelman | Distributed: 2008-06-09 | Word Count: 479 | Page Views: 1328 | Votes: 6 | Rating: 3.00
More than ever these days we are forced to take responsibility for our own welfare. As a symbol that little oil change decal is always there, every time we get behind the wheel. And it greets us with an important question: 'Hey is it time for service yet?'

High Performance Vehicles Depend On Good Air Flow
Written by: Isaak Carter | Distributed: 2007-03-14 | Word Count: 1243 | Page Views: 964 | Votes: 12 | Rating: 2.92
High performance on a car or truck is often thought of in terms of higher horsepower (HP), more torque, faster speeds and quicker acceleration. High performance upgrades generally include improvements in efficiency and/or power.

Oil Change Reminder Stickers
Written by: Malcolm Uffelman | Distributed: 2008-06-13 | Word Count: 692 | Page Views: 538 | Votes: 8 | Rating: 2.88
On his thirtieth birthday Joe was proud of himself. He was the owner of the biggest little business in town. Every week the same ad ran in the local paper: Get your oil changed by a friend.

Understanding the Maintenance, Repair and Replacement of Ball Joints
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-11-18 | Word Count: 538 | Page Views: 7250 | Votes: 22 | Rating: 2.68
A ball joint is an important component of your car's suspension, located on the front end of the vehicle. Ball joints will wear out over time and cause handling problems as they continue to deteriorate. It is important that you have these joints inspected, particularly if you are experiencing handling problems with your vehicle.

Brush Guards Can Protect Cars and Trucks in Low-Impact Collisions
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-09-30 | Word Count: 649 | Page Views: 1291 | Votes: 9 | Rating: 2.44
It may seem like an odd addition to a passenger car that is until you stop to realize that most police departments use them on their cars as well. Brush guards protect cars and trucks from minor damages that might otherwise be sustained in a low-impact collision with a vehicle or a tree.

How a Vehicle's Exhaust System Affects Its Power and Performance
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-09-25 | Word Count: 959 | Page Views: 1041 | Votes: 7 | Rating: 2.14
The stock exhaust on many cars is far more restrictive than it needs to be. Many years ago people seeking improved power and performance learned that they could achieve both by adding a larger, less restrictive exhaust system to their vehicle. Not only do new exhaust systems provide increased power, they can also generate that sound that many automotive enthusiasts like to hear from their vehicle.

The Three W's of Oxygen Sensors
Written by: Quinton Becker | Distributed: 2008-11-11 | Word Count: 658 | Page Views: 1286 | Votes: 8 | Rating: 2.13
Unless you are an automobile mechanic or work around car parts, you probably do not know anything about oxygen sensors. Of course, the name itself gives a pretty big clue, but still leaves a lot to the imagination. The fact is, oxygen sensors are very important to the overall function of a vehicle. The following are what could be referred to as the three W's of oxygen sensors:





Article Statistics
Find This Article Title In The Search Engines:

Widow Search
Right Blinker
Google
Yahoo!
Zuula
Bing
Cuil

Last Distribution Date:
2008-09-18 12:00:00

Word Count: 630

Total Views: 9330
Views This Month: 57
Views Last Month: 245

Article Rating: 3.26 of 5
Votes Cast: 34


Author Overall Stats:

Times Viewed Overall: 35522
Author Overall Rating:
2.52 of 5
Votes Cast Overall: 197


More Articles By This Author:

Articles On This Website

Article Reprint Rights
Creative Commons License

This work is
licensed under a
Creative Commons
License


You are not required to show the creative commons license notice when you reprint this work.
Article Publishing Tools
Print Article
Email-to-Blog
HTML Source Code
Text Newsletter Format
Link Back HTML

Blog Publishing Tools

Internal ID: #3687

Education For Careers




All Articles are Copyright © 2001-2010 of the Defined Authors.

All other material and images on this site are:
Copyright © 2001-2010, ThePhantomWriters.com