Noisy Alternator Pulley?

[Brownieaj]

My 2005 C5 A6 130 tdi has just started making some horrible vibrating noises including some screeching when on full lock. I'm pretty sure that it is the alternator pulley as the belt seems to be flapping about a lot more and I had something similar on an AVF powered B5 Passat. Has anybody else experienced lots of horrible noises being generated by a failed pulley? Also is it much of a job to change the alternator? I'm guessing it needs to be done in the service position for access?

Many thanks.


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[niall campbell]

Well it could be the

Alternator Tensioner Pulley

Stretched Alternator Belt

Alternator as it has a clutch to start charging & stop charging, saving the alternator working all the time

OR

Power steering oil is LOW . However when turning steering wheel, you should never ever go full lock as you can burst seals etc..............always stop when you hear the noise. Anyway I had to top up my oil the other day, its not leaking ; but when low makes some racket

[Crasher]

Yes it is a very common problem, easy to test if the alternator will turn in the slip direction.

[Brownieaj]

Yes it is a very common problem, easy to test if the alternator will turn in the slip direction.

Thanks but is it possible to test in situ, with the belt on or do i need to dismantle to confirm? Clearly more work than normal with this model.


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[nevo]

Thin screwdriver down the alternator fins to the cooling fan,should turn one way and lock the other,your description is classic pulley clutch failure.

[Brownieaj]

Thin screwdriver down the alternator fins to the cooling fan,should turn one way and lock the other,your description is classic pulley clutch failure.

Thanks, I thought about this just after posting, felt like the only sensible way of getting a steer pre dismantling...! Just checked and it is solid in both directions so have capitalised on the ECP BH sale for a new alternator and belt for Tuesday!

Appreciate the help.


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[nevo]

You don't need a new alt just get the pulley.

[Brownieaj]

You don't need a new alt just get the pulley.

Understood but only £40 difference!


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[Crasher]

Fit a new quality pulley to a known good working alternator rather than a cheap recon full unit, better the devil you know than the one you don't.