Merc 5.7 260 alternator problem?

[Godfirst]

How many hours or timeframe should these OEM parts last? my boat is a 1987
thanks

 

[Don S]

Re: Merc 5.7 260 alternator problem?

Till they stop working, some last a year, some are still going since the late 60's.
Just like a car, they work till they don't.

 

[JustJason]

Re: Merc 5.7 260 alternator problem?

Making sure your battery connections are clean, tight, and corrosion free will help it last a lot longer, and the exact opposite can kill an alternator in very short order.

 

[CharlieB]

Re: Merc 5.7 260 alternator problem?

An old, half dead battery is a major contributor to early alternator failure.

Like JJ pointed out, keep battery cable connections clean, bright, and tight, on BOTH ends.

Check water level, top up (only to the lower end of the fill neck) with DISTILLED water.

If the boat is un-used for an off season, either remove the battery for storage, recharging at least every other month, or install a marine battery maintenance charging system. (AC or solar)

Lastly, remove the battery, take it to NAPA for an annual load test. Replace when performance fails below acceptable level.

Batteries CAN last 4,5 years or more, IF cared for.

 

[Godfirst]

Re: Merc 5.7 260 alternator problem?

Thanks for the info

 

[Godfirst]

Re: Merc 5.7 260 alternator problem?

Yes the batteries after ran a voltage check are bad