Alternator Noise Filter
Alternator noise is a fairly uncommon problem but it can be very frustrating as there is not much information available on how to fix the issue. This article will go over a few strong methods of doing so but there are no guarantees that these will work for you. As there are various possible causes to the alternator noise you may not know what the appropriate remedy will be. However, there should still be a way to filter the noise without going through too much of a hassle.
One of the main factors in how difficult it will be to filter the alternator noise is where the noise is being sent to. For instance, if the alternator noise is located in various systems within your vehicle then it may be a difficult task to filter the noise completely. On the other hand, alternator voice traveling through a 12 volt connection should not be too difficult for even a beginner to repair.
Diagnosing the Problem
You may want to just get an experienced mechanic to troubleshoot your problem. If you cannot do this then you will want to try to diagnose the problem yourself. There may be guides online that go into detail of how to diagnose alternator noise. You should also check your service manual for any tips that may help you.
One of the most quick and effective things you could do is check the diodes within the alternator. If the diodes have failed then it could be a cause of the alternator noise. It would not be a difficult task to repair this problem but it would take much more work to filter a stronger noise that it is producing.
Also, before installing or replacing an alternator noise filter you will want to make sure that none of the current filters have failed. These are located in different places depending on your vehicle but in many cases they are attached to the alternator. This could be a simple or time consuming repair depending on your mechanical experience but it can be an effective way to fix your problem.
Minimizing the Alternator Noise
You may not be able to completely remove the alternator noise from your vehicle. However, with the filters and proper repairing techniques you can at least minimize the amount of alternator noise. One method of doing so may be to install capacitors (parallel to the load). Also remember that parts located within the current path are going to be required to hold the current that is being passed through.
Installing capacitors can be very effective for minimizing the alternator noise but it is not always a great option. One major issue with this technique is that the capacitors are at risk of failing due to the fact that it is easily damaged by the voltage flow. If there is a voltage dip it will cause serious damage to the capacitors.
The current requirements of the system will also play a major role in how effective each treatment method will be. Installing a basic choke could be effective in a low current system but it may not completely eliminate the alternator noise. However, if you were to monitor this noise on a scope you should notice a major difference. Also, keep in mind that installing a choke or capacitors is only going to minimize the noise that travels from the power connection.
Lastly, if you are dealing with a high current system then you may want to invest in a high current filter. These are relatively inexpensive and many stores have them in stock. There are many different ways you can treat an alternator noise problem and installing some type of alternator noise filter should show great results. Before you attempt any repair method you should make sure that they will work for your system (mostly determined by the amount of amps) so you do not waste your time and money.
