Do you keep finding a layer of black alternator dust on the alternator housing? Should you be concerned at all? After all the black dust is rubber off the belt. Are you looking for guidance on what to do next?
If this is you and you are looking for guidance on the next steps then read on. In this post, you’ll find the likely reasons why there is black belt dust from the alternator and what you can do to fix it.
Black Dust from an Alternator – Causes +Fixes
As the belt runs over the alternator pulley at speed expect some friction where the pulley contacts with the belt to cause wear and tear.
Depending on whether the belt of properly installed, the pulley type used, or the belt type you can expect some dust in some but not all cases.
If black dust keeps piling up then check:
#1. The alternator or crank pulleys are smooth without traces of rust or corrosion that increase friction. If there are traces of rust they’ll add to the wear and tear on the best. Contact a good auto mechanic on how to fix the rust on the pulleys.
Does the pulley move freely? If not then this increases the friction and the belt dust too.
#2. Confirm that you’ve installed the correct type of belt, that it is good quality and that is properly aligned too. If the belt is not aligned properly then the pulley sides can grate the belt surface hence the black dust.
Are there any recent changes to the alternator or pulley setup?
If they are then confirm with the alternator manufacturer that you’re indeed using the correct type of belt.
You may also be interested in this post: What causes the wobbling in a car alternator belt?
#3. That the belt is not overtightened and wearing down faster as a result. Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s recommendation to ensure that the belt tension is adjusted right.
Contact a qualified mechanic to check that the belt has the right tension and that it is properly aligned. Confirm that the alternator is firmly mounted and the bearings too.
#4. The belt is not damaged and is due for replacement. Inspect the belt for cracks or any dry rot. These also contribute to alternator belt dust.
Replace the belt with the manufacturer’s recommended belt and check if this clears the problem.
What to DO
Some occasional black dust is probably normal as there is some wear and tear when the belt runs over the pulleys. No intervention may be required.
If on the other hand, you find the black rubber dust building up again even when you clean it or are just bothered by it then it’s probably wise to dig in to find the underlying causes and solution for them.
Why you Should be Concerned?
If you find a lot of belt dust then you should be concerned as it points to excessive wear and the alternator belt risks failing prematurely as a result. This can lead to damage to the engine from overheating too.
Closing Thoughts
If there are occasional traces of black dust from the alternator belt, that’s probably normal.
That said, there are alternator pulley installations without black dust so you should probably contact an auto mechanic all the same even if it is limited to small traces.
Should there be a consistent buildup then this is a cause for concern as it’ll shorten the belt life. Confirm that you’re using the correct type of belt, that the alternator pulleys are properly aligned, and also ensure that there’s no dust or corrosion on the alternator pulleys.
Always contact a qualified auto mechanic.
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