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| A generator is not that complicated to repair and rebuild |
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| The brushes reside in the back of the generator, and are easily replaced |
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Series I and early Series II-A Land Rovers recharged their batteries with generators, simple devices that are also easy to repair and maintain.
A generator has only a few components to replace" carbon brushes and bearings. If the generator is quiet but not recharging the battery, it's usually because the brushes inside the case have worn away. If the generator is noisy and not recharging, the bearings might need replacing. Fortunately, both repairs are simple to accomplish.
The hardest part is removing the generator. It's mounted on the lower side of the engine and rarely removed, so it picks up a lot of road crud and oil that collects on the three mounting bolts. Loosening them enough to release the generator can take some time and patience.
Once it's off the car, unscrew the three l-o-n-g screws that connect the rear and front plate of the generator. Be generous with some lubricant; the screws are not that strong yet they can also corrode in place.
On the rear plate, you'll see two carbon blocks fitted into holders, with wires screwed into the plate. The brushes are squeezed against a shaft that runs in the center by the spring-loaded holders. A thin screwdriver, or better yet, an O-ring pick, will help you separate the holders so you can slip in new brushes. Screw in the wires and you're all set.
If the generator was squealing while running, take the time to grease and/or replace the bearings at the same time. And while the generator is apart, use some brake cleaner or electrical contact cleaner to rub off the carbon deposits from the parts inside the generator.
Reassemble the pieces and you'll have successfully repaired the generator. Oh, and the total cost will be under $25.
Copyright 2009 by Jeffrey Aronson
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