Alternator Failure or Dead Battery-Who is the Real Culprit

05.15.2018 Nothing is more frustrating than trying to start up your car only to realize its not working. We have been there at one time or another, but sometimes it just not clear as to what, if anything we need to replace. Batteries and alternators work closely together and sometimes it may be hard to tell which one needs fixing. Before running out to buy a new battery or alternator, take a moment to search for the real issue at hand. Don’t panic just yet! If you’re lucky it just might be a quick fix! First, we recommend giving your engine a quick check by first inspecting your battery and its wire connections. It’s free and sometimes it just might be the problem. Months ago, my daughter ...

Starter Motors 101 – What is it?

05.15.2018 Simply put, a starter motor is a necessary component used within an electrical starting system that also includes a starter relay or solenoid and battery. Together, they provide the engine with an electrical charge used to turn and thus, start an engine. Ever wonder what happens when you turn the key to your car, truck, boat, ATV, mower, etc? Well, the simple action of turning your key sets off the first of an interesting chain of events within your engine that gets you going on your way! The moment you turn your key, the battery supplies the necessary electricity to your starter motor first, by way of a starter relay or solenoid to engage and turn over the engine. Next up is th...

Alternators 101–What it is

05.15.2018 Alternators 101 Like it was explained to us when we first started out, if it has lights or puts out music, it has an alternator. An alternator is an important part of the electrical system for your application and closely works with the battery and the voltage regulator. What exactly does it do? Its most important job is to keep the battery charged. The alternator generates, and subsequently gives power or electricity to your battery, so that it is always charged and ready to go to produce power to the lights, music, and items of that nature in your application. So how does the alternator work exactly? Well, explaining that part sounds pretty much like something...