Vauxhall Astra - Alternator Won't Charge

If you, "had the diode plate changed", take it back to the shop that changed it.

If you told them to "make the alternator work" they should do the job over.

I think you have a intermittent dead short in the steering column or at the rack.

replace the cables.

I had the same short on a Opel Monza also resulting in a flat battery.

Thanx, will have it checked out

Depending upon what type of power steering you have changes the possibilities for the answer.

If you have PS with an oil reservoir, you have a problem with the V-Belt, too loose or something, its not turning the hydraulic pump or the alternator.

If you have electrical power steering, you may still have a V-Belt problem, but most likely your alternator is broken.

Just changing the diodes may or may not fix the problem.

Maybe the replacement is bad, or that was not the real problem.

Who decided that you needed to replace the diodes? For what reason? How did he identify the problem? eg. what test equipment did he use?

Have you checked that all cables are connected?

I've experienced the same problem while using my vauxhaull astra. The battery can only stand for a maximum 2 days. I've to charged the battery every night. What I did to solve the problem is just change the alternator with a used one. Can find it at the scrap yard for a price of 20 pound.

Thats sounds like a good cheap fix to me........one could even find and install an alternator (with inbuilt regulator only) that had a higher amp output......especially good if you are a camper/caravanner or similar!!

I am having similar problems, my alternator is dead. However, I've just found one I can buy but the guy is asking which kind I need - a multy belt ot a groove cut - apparently it's the teeth marks on the belt?

Can anyone advise on which one to buy?

My astra is an Astra Arizona N reg

Thanks

Gemma

Thanx for the advice, i bought a used alternator and its working ok now. The charging is fine, the only problem is the fuse for power steering burning whn i turn to the extreme ends.

Then check battery voltage with the engine running (with a good voltmeter that is known to be accurate) at a fast tick over for at least 5 minutes (to recharge after starting), or at the end of the run with all loads switched off...but motor still running of course.

If it is above 14.4 volts, your new alternator is over charging.....it will also damage your battery eventually.....