[gardipet]

Sorry if this question has been asked somewhere prior and I just didn’t see it, but does anyone have any advice about an Alternator in a 1992 348? It appears that I have a problem with the Alternator, and a local mechanic in San Diego has recommended that instead of using a rebuilt unit that I should purchase a factory replacement kit with a new wiring harness for a cost of $1,300, plus another $800-900 for installation. Another local mechanic in the Los Angeles area says a rebuilt unit is fine for $150, plus $350 for installation. The local mechanic gave me a lower cost option, but said I could be looking at the same problem within a couple of months. I can’t believe that Alternators only last a couple of months, and don’t know if I should spend the additional money to fix the problem, or find another mechanic.

Thanks,

Gary

 

[Andrew]

Gary,

Does the factory unit have some kind of warranty? If so I would go for that unit. If the rebuilt unit is not a Ferrari rebuilt (Ferrari part rebuilt by some company) unit but aftermarket I would again go for the factory replacement at the higher cost and peace of mind.

The downside to the rebuilt is some of the parts are used. While the broken parts are replaced with new, the other older parts could wear out causing you to have to replace it yet again if there are problems.

Have a great New Year and let us know what happens! Enjoy the weather down there, it is awful up here in San Fran at the moment.

 

[Stradale]

Sorry if this question has been asked somewhere prior and I just didn’t see it, but does anyone have any advice about an Alternator in a 1992 348? It appears that I have a problem with the Alternator, and a local mechanic in San Diego has recommended that instead of using a rebuilt unit that I should purchase a factory replacement kit with a new wiring harness for a cost of $1,300, plus another $800-900 for installation. Another local mechanic in the Los Angeles area says a rebuilt unit is fine for $150, plus $350 for installation. The local mechanic gave me a lower cost option, but said I could be looking at the same problem within a couple of months. I can’t believe that Alternators only last a couple of months, and don’t know if I should spend the additional money to fix the problem, or find another mechanic.

Thanks,

Rebuilt alternators are just as good. People don't normally change alternators because the only thing that can be worn out are the carbon brushes and the bearings. the coils can be re-wound quite easily. So why do you need a new casing because essentially that what can't be repaired!

 

[Rolm]

See if you can install a GM alternator it will outlast the car if not then go with a rebuilt. But make sure it's your alternator real easy to check. Heres how

1) hook-up a volt meter across your batt, next rev engine above 2500rpm the voltage should be above 13.5 volts if is it's perfect
2) now let's see if the Batt is ok. Turn engine off turn headlights on keep them on for 5 minutes, next turn off headlights wait 1 minute, now check batt with volt metter the volmeter must read at leas 12.5 volts if below that replace the batt with a delco batt and you are done for the next 5 to 7 years.

 

[fana348 France]

F348

the alternator is easy to change yourself if you can go under the car.I already done it and it doesnt takes more then 2 or 3 hours and it is not my job !
You can find it eswhere than in Ferrari store because itr is often a nipondenso, that can fit on some japanese cars...sometime, alternator failures are due to oil coming on it , from the camshaft seals (gaskets)...
look on ebay you can find one in canada with "Gentrylane ebayer"
bye

 

[4kids3fish]

In my opinion, electrics are not Ferrari's strong suite. I wouldn't put a premium on a new factory part if it is actually a Bosch or Nippon Denso unit anyway. If it is refurbishable by a auto-electrician with a good reputation, then I'd go with that. Heck you can buy a lot of them for $2100!!

 

[gearman555]

Alternator

Gary,

If you have a delco alternator you can get the parts at most auto parts stores for under $30. The part that usually fails needs to be soldered in. I had the same problem with a 90' model. Delco units were not intended to spin at 9000-10000 rpms when the engine is at redline. The pulley ratio is wrong. If you need the part # just drop me an email. [email protected]
Mike

 

[Pete04222]

Go for the rebuilt. Even if it does fail in a couple of years, you can afford it 4 times. One thing I don't understand, why is it $350 to install a rebuilt alternator and $900 to install a new one? The installation time should be the same.

I'd look at the alternator to see who made it (Ferrari didn't make it) and look for the alternator itself rather than the Ferrari factory replacement kit.