Paint new alternator?

CLC3

Member
Sep 9, 2012
68
South Florida
Boat Info
480 Sedan Bridge 2003 - "Sea Casa"
Achilles Dinghy w/ Tohatsu 20
Engines
Cummins QSM-11s; Kohler Genset
An alternator failed on one of my Mercruiser engines and I've ordered a new aftermarket replacement. From the product photos, the new alternator is unpainted. Given the hostile environment of the engine room, I am assuming that it is wise to paint the new unit before installation. Is there any reason NOT to paint it? Are there any special preparations for painting an alternator or steps to achieve quality, effective results?

Thanks in advance...

- Chip
 
If you bought a marine grade, Ignition proof alternator, why does it need painting?

Let me re-phrase that; If you bought an ignition proof marine grade alternator it should not need anything. If you bought an automotive alternator from Auto Zone, you have bigger things to worry about than a little corrosion on the alternator frame.

Henry


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD
 
First, the new alternator is marine grade - an exact replacement for both the Mercruiser and Mando (manufacturer) part numbers.

>why does it need painting?

Mercruiser painted the original so there is some basis for thinking paint has a purpose - maybe it's just cosmetics (looks better). In any case, that's part of my question. If painting is not needed, I have less on the task list. If it is, I want to give the alternator the protection or other benefit that painting may provide.

Thanks...

- Chip
 
First, the new alternator is marine grade - an exact replacement for both the Mercruiser and Mando (manufacturer) part numbers.

>why does it need painting?

Mercruiser painted the original so there is some basis for thinking paint has a purpose - maybe it's just cosmetics (looks better). In any case, that's part of my question. If painting is not needed, I have less on the task list. If it is, I want to give the alternator the protection or other benefit that painting may provide.

Thanks...

- Chip

Chip,

That being the case, if the exposed metal is aluminum it may be not need painting. If the exposed steel parts have a gold tone, then they have been cadmium plated. While not the greatest anti-corrosion coating it will be on par with a post production paint jonb.

Black paint is kind of the Mercury signature color. I personally would leave it alone as getting paint inside may do more harm than any surface corrosion on the exterior.

Henry
 
Henry -

From the product photos, the frame appears to be aluminum and there is a gold tone to the exposed steel. The new unit arrives tomorrow so I can verify these factors then and take action accordingly.

Your information is helpful - thanks.

- Chip
 
Paint is cosmetic, but in South Florida, some type of protection is going to be needed to keep the aluminum from getting white and chalky and the gold from rusting. In fact the cadmium plating will rust in just the salt air in a matter of days. I've never seen one replaced here in NW Fla. and NOT painted before installation.
 
Since alternators get hot while in use, I would suggest a heat resistant paint like manifold/header paint. At least an engine paint.
 

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