4rth alternator decoupler gone South.

racertracer · **Posted:** Wed May 20, 2015 6:07 am

This will be my fourth Advance Auto Parts failed decoupler pulley since 2013

All replaced under warranty .... I hate to keep going through this, is there a better way?

funnyman06 · **Joined:** Sun Jul 06, 2014 7:46 pm **Posts:** 180

Which part number are you using? I just ordered and installed the pulley recommended by litens, im hoping it last. Also have you looking at the rest of your serpentine belt system to make sure nothing else is killing it? Bad tensioner or crank pulley?

flman · **Posted:** Wed May 20, 2015 6:50 am

You had 3 CRDs, all on one vehicle?

gmctd · **Posted:** Wed May 20, 2015 11:28 am

What percentage of run-time is idling\near-idling rpm?

geordi · **Posted:** Wed May 20, 2015 12:48 pm

I let my CRD idle for 8 hours at a stretch, so I dispute that idling could be an issue. I think the real problem is that you are dealing with Chinese components. At least the alternator isn't too hard to remove and it is under warranty, right?

The alternative is buying the Metalnerd tool kit and the Litens decoupler and just paying to replace it, and hoping that lasts longer.

funnyman06 · **Joined:** Sun Jul 06, 2014 7:46 pm **Posts:** 180

^ That is what I just did. But after we took the pulley off it sounds like the alternator might need to be replaced soon anyways. O well, ill add it to the list haha

CATCRD · **Posted:** Wed May 20, 2015 9:59 pm

Gmctd is right. Idle time is much harder on the decoupler than cruising time.

GreatJob! · **Posted:** Wed May 20, 2015 11:48 pm

I feel your pain and was asking the same thing last week when I replaced my second Advance Auto alternator in 6 months, or roughly 4-5000miles. First Advance Auto alternator was installed Thanksgiving weekend, 2014.

At least it was free and just cost my time in running around to pick up the part and swap it out for a refund. I'd hate to spend money towards this issue again, so soon, but I fear it is just how it's going to be.

racertracer · **Posted:** Thu May 21, 2015 5:56 am

I want to clarify that although the decoupler went bad, the the alternator was still producing enough juice and had plenty of life left.

Also what will be replaced under the Advance Auto Parts warranty for the fourth time, is the entire alternator and decoupler assembly.

I don't believe it is idle time that destroys the unit but it is the low grade bearings that can't hold up to the test of time, and by the way, the "Made in China" sticker is right on the top of the alternator.

The previous alternator decoupler bushing that was on the very first alternator, lasted approximately 9 months and had signs of rusty powder under the protective cap. The last 3 failed decouplers lasted approximately 4 months and didn't fail due to the rust because I didn't notice any, but it was due to weak bearings and a bad wobble.

Anyway, the replacement alternator is due to arrive at Advance Auto today, I'll be installing it and then keep track of how long this one lasts.

I have a question: Has anyone had good results with their alternator when the OEM decoupler unit was replaced with a new Litens decoupler or a new Gates decoupler? Anyone have the correct part numbers?

I heard that Gates has a quality decoupler also...... and where to buy them?

flman · **Posted:** Thu May 21, 2015 6:13 am

racertracer wrote:

I don't believe it is idle time that destroys the unit but it is the low grade bearings that can't hold up to the test of time, and by the way, the "Made in China" sticker is right on the top of the alternator.

Says it all..................

funnyman06 · **Joined:** Sun Jul 06, 2014 7:46 pm **Posts:** 180

The Litens pulley is made in Canada. Its a very nice part, and there is a reason it cost almost as much as half an alternator from Advanced.

papaindigo · **Posted:** Thu May 21, 2015 8:40 am

The "updated" Litens decoupler is 920834 see viewtopic.php?f=5&t=78875

flash7210 · **Posted:** Sat May 23, 2015 10:40 am

Today I found a somewhat local guy who had the new Litens pulley.
New pulley + installation for $50.

funnyman06 · **Joined:** Sun Jul 06, 2014 7:46 pm **Posts:** 180

Thats a great deal, I paid more than that for just the pulley!

WWDiesel · **Posted:** Sat May 23, 2015 2:07 pm

I had a new pulley installed by my local starter/alternator rebuilder. He used a German part, claimed it was the best on the market... Only available to licensed rebuilders! Less than 50 bucks out the door...

4rth alternator decoupler gone South.

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