The issue centres on an alternator pulley failure, caused by a stretched or worn belt. Over a prolonged period, the vehicle’s drive belt stretches: as it elasticises, an incorrect load is applied to the alternator pulley set-up, which results in excessive vibration within the drive belt system and can cause the failure of the alternator pulley and/or bearings.
Autoelectro’s advice is to inspect the belt and, if it exceeds 2,100mm in length, the part must be replaced. It recommends a 6PK2100 belt, with an additional guide pulley between the power steering pump pulley and crankshaft pulley.
Focusing on diesel models, the issue affects part numbers AEA3201, AEC1299, AEC1481, AEC1489 and AEC1630.
Bradford-based Autoelectro is a remanufacturer of starter motors and alternators, and has created more than 500 technical bulletins on its website. Click the link below for more information, or to sign up for free fitting guides and advice.