I took a ride upstate Ny, about 180 miles from where I live. After parking the vehicle for about 2hr, I started it to find the alternator not charging, making a noise and smoking. I immediately turn the vehicle off, contacted a repair shop close by. The shop was a mile away, they said I could drive it or pay $75 for a tow. I decided to drive, so I started the vehicle and revved the engine. The whine went away, there was no smoke and the charging can back. The shop tested the alternator and said it was charging. I purchased an alternator just to be safe for the ride back and would install it on the road if need be. The whole trip back the alternator charged perfectly with no problems. I have a spare alternator, so I'm returning the one I purchased. Any ideas on what caused this to happen. The alternator has a lifetime warranty, if I send it back they should so there was a problem with it or should I keep my spare in the truck and use this alternator until it goes completely.

 

I'd just replace it. especially if you physically saw it smoking and heard it whining. Who wants to deal with that roadside repair in the pouring down rain someday in the future?

 

yup if you saw the smoke and know that the noise was coming form the alternator i would just replace it and save myself the trouble later on

 

It's been sent back for repair or replacement and the Oem 136 amp is back in the truck.

 

good move!!!

 

Rule of thumb!

If it smokes and it's electrical?.....Replace it......LOL

 

I sent it back and they replaced the rectifier/diode. I had to pay for shipping though, $20 each way.

 

I figured there was a problem and thanks for the update!