Ford Alternators

The alternator is an essential component in your vehicle's charging system. In fact, it's the most essential, since it's responsible for creating the electricity that the system, accessories, and parts depend upon. How it does that is fairly straightforward. An alternator converts the mechanical energy of the engine into electricity.

How do Alternators Work?

The alternator does that thanks to the crankshaft, which takes the vertical motion of the pumping pistons and converts it into rotary motion. That moves a drive belt attached to a pulley that's located on a rotor shaft. Inside the shaft, magnetic coils get agitated by the movement and produce a magnetic field. That field is captured as AC (alternating current) power by a rectifier and then transformed into DC (direct current) power. That's the electricity that runs such parts as your entertainment system, wipers, and power windows. That DC power is also used to charge your battery.

What are the Signs of a Failing Alternator?

A bad alternator is a problem, since it leaves your battery as the only source of electricity for all systems and components. When that happens, your battery will drain rapidly. Signs of trouble include:

• Headlights begin to dim or flicker
• The power windows stop working
• Your sound system begins to act up
• The battery repeatedly dies
• You hear strange engine noises

Where Can You Buy Replacement OEM Alternators Online?

If you do need to replace a faulty alternator, getting the right one is key. Since a new alternator can cost between $200 and $800 at retail, it's an investment you'll want to be sure of. Buying one made by your manufacturer ensures that you're getting an alternator that was designed specifically for your model and its engine. When you buy yours from our online auto parts counter, you get a guaranteed compatibility you can trust. You also save money, since we sell our genuine OEM alternators at a steep discount to the MSRP. Order today and we'll ship yours right to your doorstep!