Sparks coming from the altenator.

[89325iturbo]

I was starting my car, and sparks were coming from the altenator. Is this a sign of my alternator going bad? Or is something shorting out? Or if it got something in it like water, or oil? I just don't want to start it, and have something catch on fire.

[KenC]

I'd buy a new alternator. They're not that bad used.

[Ryan Stewart]

1. that is f'ed up
2. technical forum

[Jand3rson]

I have an alternator on ebay right now:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&category=33573&item=2477395561&sspagename=STRK%3AMESSE%3AIT

[rayz]

seems like something is grounding. did u leave some tools in the engine bay? if you got it soaked it just wouldnt function

[89325iturbo]

Yeah i might have had some tools in the engine bay. That can mess with the grounding of things. Also i put a new bolt through the top of the altenator, the long one right up top that helps to hold it in place. Could that effect the grounding . thanks

[rayz]

maybe the bolt you put in is too long, and is barely making contact with the internals.