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Just purchased very nice low mileage 1989 and experienced alternator problem near end of 275 mile trip home. (actually caught fire and almost was major disaster on freeway). I have since heard that one year the C-4's (not sure if 1989) had frequent alternator problems due to poor ground. Any comments on similar experience and suggestions on how to prevent reoccurence would be most appreciated. Thanks
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Re: 1989 alternator fire
It probably had a low battery,and on the ride home the alternator overheated trying to recharge the battery.I know ,sounds unlikely but C4s are known for this, never heard the bad ground problem though. The alternators are lightweight & burn up easily, esp. the bearings.If the battery is good they don't need to work as hard and they will live a lot longer. Rule of thumb in a C4, when battery gets weak, just remove & replace dont try to revive it.Even charging the battery with the cables connected can damage the alternator. I have an 89 coupe I bought from the original owner, and yes it had a new alternator when I bought it. Hope this helps, Craig -
alternator caution
I don't want to hijack this thread, nor to minimize the issues with the C4 alternators, but.....
If the battery is low one risks damaging any alternator. Alternators are not designed to charge up discharged batteries, regardless of the rated output of the alternator. Save yourself some major troubles if your battery is discharged, use a battery charger, not the alternator, to bring it back to full charge. Of course, prevention is worth a pound of cure. There are excellent battery support chargers available for use while the car is in storage. They cost less than a new battery.TerryComment
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Re: alternator caution
For a good price on "Battery Tenders"( not the brand) check out your local bike shop.Comment
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Re: 1989 alternator fire
Thanks guys. I hope I don't see flames under the hood again!Comment
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Re: 1989 alternator fire
Craig reference "Even charging the battery with the cables connected can damage the alternator." How did this occur with you?Comment
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