Alternator thread repair?

[nobby81]

The thread on my alternator spindle has threaded and I can no longer tighten the nut for the top pully. I'm absolutely skint at the mo due to getting getting married in a few weeks so need a alternative to a £270 new unit. A mate of a mate works in a engineering shop and has offered to rethread the spindle for £20, I've got nothing to lose. Is the next thread size 10mm? Or is thread an obscure/ imperial size in between? Is there any benefit fitting a helicoil or just a smaller nut? The bus won't be used much before next spring and this is only meant to be temporary. Can anybody advise please? Thanks mike

 

[dustrat]

Get your friend to re thread it and supply a nut to fit.Put a spring washer on and tighten and with a bit of luck will last until your 10th or 20th wedding anniversary
Robert

 

[purpledog07]

Have you stripped the thread completely?
If not you can clean up with a thread chaser or thread file or carefully with a tiny file. If its not damaged all the way to the end you could space with washers to reach the good bit. Make sure you have a few threads to bite on and maybe use some medium strength loctite.
I can't see any harm in rethreading it though as long as you have a thick washer on there and the rethread starts after where the cup washer sits.
I wouldn't consider replacing the alternator at all unless it's broken.