Bad alternator? 1996 Chevy Blazer

ANSWER : Hi there – the fact that the engine won’t stay running when jumper cables are removed suggests that either the alternator has failed, or the battery has a dead cell, preventing it from conducting current. Both components can be checked by an auto parts store if you take them in. however, given you had an "event" that may have caused other damage, I would recommend a electrical system inspection by a mobile, professional mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, who will come to your location, diagnose this problem, give you an accurate assessment of damage and cost estimate for repairs.

ANSWER : The hardware and software of the computer (powertrain control module) and transmission control module (TCM) in the Civic will only work with your present engine. So, if you change the engine to one that is not a catalog interchange for the car you will have to carry over the "new" engine’s computer, TCM and complete vehicle wiring harness in order to get the new engine to even start, let alone run. Adding to the complexity, if you install a larger engine, that typically increases the weight in the front of the vehicle which means that you will have to re-design the suspension of the vehicle, if the frame attachment points are even rated for higher weight. Unfortunately, with modern cars, there is no practical possibility for using non interchange engines unless your intent is to completely re-design the vehicle. If your engine has failed, and thus you simply need a replacement used engine, please note that you will EASILY find many direct interchanges using on-line used parts databases such as Car-Part.com. Finally, if you are interested in an engine replacement (OEM to OEM), YourMechanic professionals in certain locales can assist with that. Please simply inquire based on your locale. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic.

ANSWER : It would be difficult to say exactly how much oil it would take to cause the alternator to fail. However, oil leaking on the alternator due to leaking valve cover gaskets can cause it to fail. It seems as if the technician who is servicing your vehicle may not have performed a courtesy inspection to check for other potential issues prior to starting the other repairs you had requested. I would recommend having the alternator replaced if it has oil leaking on it as well as resolving the valve cover gasket leak to prevent it from happening again. You may try to use a different mechanic who is more upfront and honest in the first place. Consider YourMechanic as services such as this can be completed from your home or office.

ANSWER : When you say you have three bad sensors I can only assume you have had them tested and the end result is three bad sensors. If they tested bad then they should be replaced. The power steering sensor senses the load of the steering on the engine so it can raise the idle during parking maneuvers. The O2 sensor is used for fuel control and it may effect engine power and fuel mileage. The camshaft sensor cay cause no starts, engine running problems and all three will turn on the check engine light.

ANSWER : Pulleys do go bad because the grease in the pulley bearing dries out, the ball bearings and bearing races get pitted and then the pulley becomes noisy. Sometimes, the pulley will actually seize. However, it will be EASILY evident if a pulley bearing is bad. So, all you need to do is have them PROVE the failure to you. If the pulley turns SMOOTHLY with no resistance and there is no noise, then there is nothing wrong with the pulley. Tensioners combine a pulley with a "tensioning" mechanism. If the pulley on the tensioner is good, to check the tensioning mechanism, just ask the shop personnel how many pounds they are able to measure (using a Gates gauge) as "belt tension" with the tensioner installed. If they can measure an installed belt tension of at least 80 to 110 pounds on the serpentine belt, you are fine. As far as alternator failures, even if all pulleys seized, the serpentine belt snapped and all the accessory drives came to a crashing halt, such would have no effect whatsoever on the mechanical or electrical function of an alternator. Alternators are DRIVEN by the serpentine belt. All that happens when the belt disappears or pulleys seize is the alternator stops turning; there is NO possibility of damage to the alternator. Once you re-apply a new belt, or new pulleys, the accessories start turning again, just like before and the alternator produces current to charge the batteries. As noted, pulleys do wear out…worn pulleys do cause noise but all that is beside the point. Insofar as your concern, you CAN confirm if they are telling the truth by just simply having them PROVE the alleged failure to you. If they cannot prove it, or are unwilling to prove it (don’t buy the "insurance rules don’t allow you in the shop trick), then do not replace the pulleys. In the future, you can save a lot of money by having a repair like this, as well as maintenance, performed on a mobile basis. So, please keep us in mind and if additional concerns arise related to your current issue, please don’t hesitate to inquire further.

ANSWER : Hi – yes, the engine will bolt up, although some swapping of manifolds, accessory mounts, etc. may be required. The bigger issue is compatibility with engine electronics, which will include the transmission controller. Your are best off if you can use the engine and transmission controller off of the donor vehicle if the transmissions are the same. The electronic compatibility will be the most challenging part. Unfortunately, YourMechanic.com does not currently offer engine-swap services at this time. Here are some good technical references for background. Good luck!

ANSWER : First thing that you want to do is check the tie rods, when they wobble when you move them, then it is often bad tie rods. So it could be as simple as bad tie rods. If your tie rods are really worn they can also make a rubbing noise when you turn to the left, too. If you need help, have a technician, such as one from YourMechanic inspect your car’s shaking issue. They will be able to make a diagnosis and follow through with repairs that you need.

ANSWER : Hi. There could be several things going on here. The battery for the car could be going bad or already is bad, causing the alternator to read low voltage. The battery needs to be tested as well. The fuse for your alternator could be blown as well. This will also cause the alternator to give a false reading. The wiring from the alternator to battery could be broken, have corrosion, or have a short; these things could also cause the problem you have. Without knowledge of the symptoms affecting your car, it is difficult to diagnose any issues with your vehicle; however, a certified YourMechanic technician can be dispatched to your location to inspect your vehicle and suggest any repairs needed.