Alternator ?

[Nick Barber]

I need a alternator for my 04. There are 2 kinds, one is built from 1/2004 for for $245, the other is built to 12/2003 for $165. I would assume that I need the from 1/2004 but I am not sure. Any way to know? Thanks.

 

[Jeff C]

Check on your door sticker for the build date. That will tell you.

 

[Nick Barber]

Thanks Jeff

 

[shawn stonbraker 2]

Both should be the same. There isn't going to be any difference between the alternator from 2001-2005 ST.

 

[Nick Barber]

I had the alternator tested at a Battery/Alt specialist shop in my area. They said both are good but there is a 0.6 amp draw somewhere. I dont have anything plugged in and the dome lights are off. Any ideas what would cause the draw? Could it be the amps, I have the Pioneer stereo system, or maybe because I leave the headlights on auto maybe?

 

[shawn stonbraker 2]

Check your amps with a meter when the vehicle is turned off. See if there is power getting to the "remote" wire that turns them on and off with the vehicle.

 

[EddieS'04]

Doesnt the ECU draw power all the time to stay live for memory? That is why you take the neg. cable off to reset it. Powering it down so it will reset. Not sure of the amp draw. I think the fuse for the ECU is 5 amp.

 

[Nick Barber]

I will check the amps, as far as the computer I have no idea. Thanks for the input guys.