M35A3 Smoking Alterntor

[MC5601]

Hi all,

I'm in the process of restoring an M35A3 and after finally solving my fuel issues (asphaltines and algae throughout fuel system) and brake issues I have now discovered that the alternator smokes after running for several minutes at high RPM. I can let the truck idle and the alternator seems to be fine, supplying power to lights, etc. but after driving at around 2000 rpm it heats up and smokes within 2-3 minutes. Is there anything I should check for before replacing? Battery leads and connections at the alternator seem to be relatively clean and functional

Thanks in advance,

Matt

 

[M35A2-AZ]

Are you batteries good? The bearings in the Alt. maybe bad, take the belts off and see if it turns ok.

 

[MC5601]

Are you batteries good? The bearings in the Alt. maybe bad, take the belts off and see if it turns ok.

Batteries are showing to be good and are on a maintainer when not in use. A bearing would make sense as the increased RPM would cause more heat and eventual smoke. I may try to take belts off this weekend to see if it turns freely

 

[MC5601]

Are you batteries good? The bearings in the Alt. maybe bad, take the belts off and see if it turns ok.

I'll also add that none of my gauges are functional which also leads me to think the alternator may be bad. Haven't gotten around to checking the spider wire for grounding issues so yet to be determined!

 

[M35A2-AZ]

I would try to get your voltage gauge working. Also have you put a volt meter on the Alt.?

 

[INFChief]

Check if the pulley is the correct one. You would be surprised at how many military mechanics will swap out a alternator/generator and use the wrong pulley causing it to under-drive or over-drive the alternator/generator.