[Glyder]

Just saying hi

 

[Glyder]

I guess I can post this in here. HOpefully someone will help out

I have a 2002 SE-R, stock. Lately (last month or so) I have noticed that there was a slight whine when I started the car, but as time went on its become more and more pronounced. When I stop at a light, the whine is more pronounced, but its not really noticeable when driving. I also can get a smell of burning, almost like metal being ground. (that CAN'T be good)

Not sure what it can be, but its getting worriesome. Before I take it to a garage, can anyone give me an idea what it might be?

Its standard, 153 Km, changed the oil about 6 weeks ago.

Thanks, Sean

 

[Glyder]

Ok, spoke with a friend who is good with cars, and while he hasn't looked at it yet, based on what I said he thinks it could be the belt from the power steering & alternator? Now, I don't know anything about cars. Is this something that I can do, or something I could screw up royally?

Trying to learn about vehicles, never was my forte...

 

[cden1]

IMHO it's not something someone that is inexperienced should do. Plus that might not be the problem. Take it to a reputable garage.

 

[i68k]

from your description it sounds like your alternator is done. you can check your battery voltage with motor on&off to check the charging system. most likely, the bearings spun on the alternator, but if your belt is too lose and not spinning the alternator, it could cause this as well. if you smell burning rubber, its most likely your belt. if you smell electrical stuff frying, its most likley your alternator. if you smell burning metal, it maybe a pulley or something else.

there is a how-to here:
http://www.b15sentra.net/forums/showthread.php?t=186772&highlight=alternator

edit: when you pull the belt off the alternator, check if its still slipping, if it slips too much, its not good either.

 

[Glyder]

Thanks for the replies guys. My friend is really good with cars, and he is going to look at it either tonight or tomorrow. I just wanted a bit of heads up info. Sounds like he called it, from what you are saying.

what is the best bet on Alternators? New? Rebuilt? (can they be rebuilt?) etc. How expensive are they?

 

[i68k]

if you read this:
http://www.b15sentra.net/forums/showthread.php?t=186772&highlight=alternator

youll see ive gotten one for $40, the rebuilts are like $150-$250 and the new are $250+ from what i saw.