OK, please tell me I am crazy, but, a week ago my alternator went out. I got it tested and it was dead, so I put in a replacement. Ever since, I feel like the car's been running totally differently...

First off, the power steering seems to be much stronger, then the brakes seem to be more powerfully boosted, and finally, I'm convinced it's running cooler. In the past the car used to heat up easily during stop-n-go traffic, but this week it's been 80º + all week and it's always stayed cool.

Now, could I just be imagining these things, or would a weak/faulty alternator have caused higher temperatures, weak power steering, and weaker brake boost? I doubt it and I'm sure it's all in my mind, but I'd love to hear other peoples' thoughts.

1998 Cavalier 2.2 auto with 99k miles...




I was happy when I heard my car ran 10s. Then I found out that was 0-60.

This is a pot-shot.

But maybe your car was running at a higher RPM to make up the extra voltage? That would mean a lower vaccuum which I think would mean worse braking. It would run hotter.

I don't think it explains the power steering. Someone else is bound to know though...

Or



The Alternator was loading/partially seizing and slowing down the engine

The Power Steering pump was running slower

Slower engine speed resulted in less vacuum for the brakes

Increased load and slower water pump speed = hotter coolant


Thinking all this at idle but there would be more engine load at any speed

But really, just a guess



Alont

Hmm that kind of makes sense. THanks for responding and not just dismissing me as crazy!




I was happy when I heard my car ran 10s. Then I found out that was 0-60.

Well, you can faithfully outaccelerate a brand new Ford F150, if that makes you feel any better about your 0-60 time...


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We all drive in a yellow Cavalier...