Generator "squeal"

[Tonylong]

My generator has just started making a "squealing" noise. It most
noticeable at lower rpm's, (probably goes beyond my hearng range at
higher rpm's). It sounds very much like the whine from the radio,
but's it definetly coming from the generator itself. This happened last
year and I replaced the generator, it seemed to go away for a while,
but has now returned.
Any ideas on the source ?
TIA.

 

[Eagle85C4]

Just a quick FYI...they quit using generators years ago...it is a alternator...and it sounds like the bearings are getting ready to let you down....

 

[RalleyRed]

One other thing you might want to check is the belt.


I had a squeal that was driving me nuts.

Because of some problems I had in BG I thought it was coming from my tranny or my clutch.

Turns out the bolt holding my altenator was stripped and at about 20 mph the belt would start singing like it knew the words.

It very well maybe the bearings, but I like to check the cheap stuff first.

Rick

 

[The Car Whisperer]

Check the belt tension and belt tensioner. The tensioner may be frozen and not applying the correct tension. Take the belt off and turn the Alternator by hand, if you feel roughness it could be the bearings. When you turn the Alt by hand you will feel some friction from the brushes, generally this is a smooth feel and sound not rough like bad bearings. While you have the belt off check the tensioner, see if it pivots freely under the tensioner spring pressure. If not it coud be frozen or hanging up.