Alternator replacement... oil issue

[KCarter90]

Hi all,

I'm having some trouble with replacing my alternator.
I have removed all bolts and connectors but came across a problem when disconnecting the last one (it's a thick rubber tube). I pulled the tube off and oil began running out of the end. I'd guess i'd had it off for no more than 5 minutes before replacing the tube and calling it a day. (it started to rain anyway

)

I've dabbled with bits and bobs with cars and usually through YouTube videos and forums i can repair and replace parts, so it's not as though i'm completely useless at these things it's just that for the most part i follow what has been shown. ie. i know i need to disconnect this piece because that's what the video showed me, but it doesn't always mean i know what it is. So that being said, i'm assuming this is the oil connector. But, i only really read about small amounts of oil coming out, whereas mine was a consistent flow for up to nearly 5 minutes.

I took pictures throughout and i've labelled the pipe I THINK the oil was coming from....


I have a Vauxhall Astra sri ctdi, 05 plate, Diesel.

Please could someone advise me on what to do as i'm not sure where to go from here!

Thanks in advance

 

[Burnerman]

The alternator on your Astra also includes a vacuum pump on the back.....this provides a vacuum for the brake servo to work. There isn't anything unusual about this system but I believe yours has its own oil supply to keep the vacuum pump bearings sweet - and that's where the oil is coming from and usually a new alternator is required.
I haven't done this repair but have fitted a new alternator (to a Zafira), so maybe the needed seals are available.....I'd do some Youtube research to see if you can further identify your problem before splashing out.
John

 

[KCarter90]

Thanks for your reply.
I had already purchased a new alternator and was half way through replacing it. The oil is coming from what i think is the 'oil drain' ? I'm not sure on that though.

 

[Burnerman]

The usual method is for a small supply of high pressure oil fed to the vacuum pump, and then returning to the sump by gravity - I guess this is what you see.
John

 

[KCarter90]

I've since learned that it might be the oil return pipe that the oil is coming from?

Do you think then i should just crack on with the replacement and use a pan to catch the oil. Then when the job is done just check my oil levels and top up?

Thanks

 

[Burnerman]

Yes, I can't see any reason not to!
Hope it goes well.
John

 

[KCarter90]

Great, thanks for your help! I’ll resume with the replacement just as soon as storm Dennis has shifted