A vehicle’s alternator outputs direct current, or DC, to power the electrical systems and maintain and recharge the vehicle battery.  

An alternator is aptly named because it generates an alternating current, or AC, which is, in turn, converted to DC.

In the good old days, a technician could take apart the alternator and check the various components, determine what was bad and replace only what was needed. But alternators have been self-contained for many years, and regulators are built in.  

So, taking apart the alternator isn’t really an option anymore. If an alternator isn’t working, it needs to be replaced. Basically, the only parts that can be replaced are the pulleys.

This video is sponsored by The Pronto Network.