Can the alternator be rebuilt??

Hey guys, I have a 2015 Tundra Trd Pro. I'm pretty sure the alternator is on its last leg. Just wondering if they can be rebuilt or is it just best to replace with a new one. I want to maintain running OEM parts.
Was hoping I could just replace the brushes in it, provided that is the cause of failure. Thanks

 

It can be rebuilt. If you have a local shop that does such things, the cost may exceed the cost of an OEM replacement, which is why they don’t do as many rebuilds anymore. If you are so inclined, you could rebuild it yourself at a much lower cost. Just have to source the worn parts and provide the labor yourself.

 

Thanks. Having heard it's a time consuming job, I planned on doing it myself. Can I source anything needed from the dealer? Or specific to the alt manufacturer? Like a rebuild kit or just will it be individual parts specific to the source of failure? Just trying to have parts on hand before I begin. Didn't want to pull it out and come to find that it wasn't serviceable. Then... having yo wait on parts to arrive. I'm pretty sure the internal brushes just need to be replaced considering the mileage I have on it.

 

You can buy rebuild kits from many different sources. Even Amazon has kits with the bearings and all.

 

I've rebuilt alternators in the past, much cheaper than buying another alternator. I've bought bearings and brushed from online vendors and done it myself. It's pretty easy if you take your time. It's been years since I've had to do that though and I don't remember who I bought the parts from.

 

I had rebuilt a bunch of Bosch alternators myself. It is cheaper than a new OE alternator (like "Toyota" or "Volvo"), but still not cheap! Average rebuild tag was $250, closer to $300 just in parts. I was hunting for a correct grade quality bearings, like low friction/ high speed, high temperature, made in Japan or reputable part of Europe. Last time I just bought a factory-rebuilt Bosch alternator that costs the same money, however the seller warrants it for life. I decided to stop doing my rebuilds, because OEM replacement parts do not last as long as they used to be. Factory installed alternator works well over 10 years, a replacement voltage regulator from Bosch lasts me about 3-4 years on average.

 

Thanks for the responses.... just seems economical smarter to just buy a new oem. Best price I found was $350 for the 150 amp.
From sparks parts. Unless you guys know of a cheaper place. Just don't want to get a fake oem one from some unknown source. Thanks for all the advice.

 

For the amount of time/labor invested in the replacement, get the OE part from sparks...

Then once the swap is done, take the alternator that you pulled out and have it bench tested; most likely it'll be the regulator or brushes failing... then at your leisure, rebuild it or have it rebuilt for next time

 

This is what I did. Cost about $100 to have the original rebuilt and it’s now a spare on the shelf.

 

What makes you think the Alternator is bad? Did you monitor the voltage of the battery with the engine running? Or you just think it's bad due to mileage?

 

I've replaced the alternator brushes (the usual wear part that results in poor alternator output) in my 1997 T-100 twice in its 275,000 miles. Never bearings or anything else. Does great. The brushes are about $15 from Mama Toyota. Not yet on the Tundra (but I have brushes in stock for when its time).

 

Maybe here : https://www.maniacelectricmotors.com/150ampalfor0.html

 

I replaced mine at around the 130 k miles point.

I planned on rebuilding it, but after removing it, I said the hell with it.

It took me 4 hours to remove the unit. The rad, the fan, the fan shroud and the power steering pump needs removed to access the mounting bolts. I have a lift and the job still sucked!

After getting it out, I ordered one off Amazon. I needed a couple days to cool down. I was pissed on how these things are mounted on the block.

The dealer wanted $1300 bucks to do the job. I now know why.

 

I rebuilt the alternator on my Surf when I lived in Japan. It was giving me all the dash lights dimly illuminated. Replaced bearings and brushes and worked perfectly til I sold it when I PCSd. Super easy job. Hardest part was uninstalling it since it was first time.

 

In my experience (Dealer Tech) with the 2nd Gen Tundras, I have found that the front bearing goes out, not usually the brushes. The front bearing starts to hum, and then it screams/smokes. I am pretty sure the bearing can be sourced from Toyota, but not the brushes. I have never replaced the bearings myself but it's definitely possible.

Denso makes Toyota's alternators. I found the best price for Denso alternators from Napa.

Also, replace that serpentine belt and belt tensioner while you are there. Those tensioners do go bad with time. Pretty sure Asin manufactures that tensioner. Rock Auto should have it for a good price.

 

My tensioner was stamped Dayco.

 

Well maybe I am wrong hahaha

 

All good - just in case some wants the Dayco part number it’s Dayco 89378

$66 Dayco 89378 Belt Tensioner

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0076H3304