At least you know that the electrical components in your Toyota Probox (windshield wipers, radio or headlights) are powered by electricity drawn from the car battery. But have you ever asked yourself where this charge comes from to recharge the car battery throughout? The answer is the car alternator! Car alternators are the main electricity generators, and the battery is used for starting the engine and power electrical components when the engine is off. Indeed, an alternator plays a very critical role when it comes to your car's charging system.
The size and model of an alternator depend on the car's size and the brand. A typical alternator comes with various components meant to provide the right amount and type of power in your vehicle. Some of the standard alternator components include.
The stator and rotor are key electricity-generating components of an alternator. Typically, the rotor is a cylindrical piece encircled in magnets and rotates inside the stator. The stator holds a firm set of conductive copper wiring for conducting the electricity generated. The spinning of magnets over the copper wiring is what creates electricity.
The voltage regulator checks the amount of power produced by the alternator. It controls the voltage produced (output) to the car battery and the power flowing to other car components.
They are used to convert the alternating current produced by the alternators to the direct current used to charge the battery and other electrical appliances.
Typically, there is a lot of heat generated by an alternator when used. Therefore a cooling mechanism becomes very important for effective operation. A typical cooling fan comprises an Aluminium casing and vents for better heat transmission. The rotating fans help circulate air for effective cooling.
Your car alternator, just like any other component, can malfunction or completely fail to work. Here are some of these indicators;
When your headlights start pulsating from dim light to bright light at night.
A burning smell originating from the alternator
Your car dashboard has a warming light switching on and off abruptly.
An unending squealing sound from your car's engine.
Intermittent malfunctioning of your car's electronic components, including the radio
When you come across some of these symptoms, there is a possibility that your car's alternator is
faulty and needs inspection.
Although alternators are almost in use, they are typically trouble-free. Ideally, it is highly recommended to replace the entire alternator rather than trying to fix it. This is because the cost of repairing a lousy alternator is almost the same as that of replacing it. Still, you can lower the cost of replacing the alternator by installing your Toyota Probox with a used alternator from junk cars. Another consideration is that used alternators serve the same purpose as brand new alternators and can last longer than trying to fix a faulty one.
Takeaway.
There are times when repairing a faulty alternator can be more cost-effective. For instance, if the problem results from a worn-out alternator belt, you can easily outsource from used auto parts dealers. However, if the alternator has some serious internal issues, it is better to consider replacing it. You don't have to worry about purchasing a brand new alternator as Superior Parts sells quality used alternators for the toyota probox and our mechanics can install them for you in our service bay.
Are you looking for brake pads for the Toyota probox? Our next article goes in-depth about the Toyota probox brake pads.