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8.9K views 4 replies 4 participants last post by  riazoo  
#1 ·
I have a 2000 Deville DHS and got a message on the DIC, Baterry not charging. The alternator had gone bust at 115k and so I figured it was time for a replacement. The dealer wanted a grand to do the job so I decided to get it done at my friends shop. Suprise! The alternator costs $700 and is a dealer only item. I'm stumped. Apparently this is a water cooled radiator that pumps out 150A. The car is used as a fleet car and I feel that maybe the regular alternator is the best bet. The 99 Devilles had regular alternators that lasted for 200k miles plus, so I was kind of suprised that this liquid cooled one failed so fast.
I am going to see if I can get a regular alternator and plug it in. Would appreciate any help from anyone who has been through this.
 
#2 ·
I would check in to having your alternator "Rebuilt" by a shop that specialized in generators and alternators etc. Another option is the Salvage yard, you might find a "Low Mileage" Caddy with one to fit yours. 120 amps should be enough to power all your accessories and then some. :)
 
#3 ·
riazoo said:
I have a 2000 Deville DHS and got a message on the DIC, Baterry not charging. The alternator had gone bust at 115k and so I figured it was time for a replacement. The dealer wanted a grand to do the job so I decided to get it done at my friends shop. Suprise! The alternator costs $700 and is a dealer only item. I'm stumped. Apparently this is a water cooled radiator that pumps out 150A. The car is used as a fleet car and I feel that maybe the regular alternator is the best bet. The 99 Devilles had regular alternators that lasted for 200k miles plus, so I was kind of suprised that this liquid cooled one failed so fast.
I am going to see if I can get a regular alternator and plug it in. Would appreciate any help from anyone who has been through this.
Unless you like changing generators you would be best off to replace it with the correct liquid cooled generator. Afterall, the last one lastest 115K. That is not bad for a generator that works as hard as the one on a Cadillac with all the electronic content that needs a lot of power.

Chances are all that is wrong is the diode trio in the generator, anyway. Take it to an auto electric shop or re-man facility and see if they can service just the diode trio in it.
 
#5 ·
Thanks for the tip! Got a reman alternator from AC Delco dealer atfor$398.00. Could not find a reasonable alternative to the liquid cooled generatorQuite a lot cheaper than the dealer option. The alternator was a real pain to take out. Had to drop the ac compressor in addition to loosening the front engine mount. You definitely need a lift for this job. The alternator is held in place by about 5 bolts and they are NOT easy to get at. Would not recommend it for the DIY. If you have night vision add another hour worth of labor. Also am changing the belt which was pretty shot at 115k. The hubs have also been changed since there was play. Hope to keep it on the road for another 100k before getting a Linc! Kidding! The Caddi is great if you can keep the fluids changed. :rolleyes: