So my SHO dies in an intersection today after the battery light and anti-lock light flicker a couple times and the climate control stops working altogether. I called my friend to come jump my car, that worked for about 1000 feet of driving and it died again. We then tried to jump it again and the alternator started to smoke. I'm assuming this means that I need to replace the alternator. Could this be anything else? And also, is replacing the alternator something I can do in the garage or do I need to have it professionally done. Thanks guys.
smoking alternator
- Thread starter The SHO
- Start date
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JTSHO
NO SHO
Sounds like altenator time to me, when you jumpstarted it it probably gave you enough juice in your battery to keep it running a minute or so. Replacing it is not a big job and regular hand tools will get the job done. Good luck! 
Whiner
Cptn. Realistic
Very simple job. The hardest part is finding an auto parts that actually has the correct alternator in stock.
If you buy one from a store I would have them test it right then and there. A lot less hassle then finding out you got a junk one after you've put it on the car. I would also charge your battery with a charger and have it checked too.The SHO said:
Check the nut on the back side [motor side] of the alternator and make sure it's tightened down. If this nut is loose, it will turn red/orange and burn the plastic cover over it and cause for smoke. I've had this happened and just tightened the nut back up and all was good. Just be sure not to touch that nut right away, I found out the hot way and busted my knuckles when I tried to pull my hand out! 
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