I have a 1990 Hilux diesel truck and recently the alternator started intermittently failing, probably the brushes. The garage recommended replacing it but had problems installing it as it had an internal voltage regulator whereas the old one had an external. Consequently they got an auto electrician to do the installation.
Subsequently on a long journey at relatively high speed at night the lights suddenly went bright. Being naive I thought "Oh good I can see better" but about 20 minutes later there was a loud bang and much rattling. So I stopped.
It turned out that the fusible link had blown causing the wipers to operate (the rattling) but much additional damage was done including blowing the regulator, the tacho, all parking lights, the dashboard illuminator and the immobiliser as well as stripping the splines on the wipers.
The auto electrician at the place I am staying was very good and replaced the regulator under its warrantee but I still have to get the other damage repaired.
I have three questions:
1) What could have caused the fusible link to blow?2) Having replaced the link but not knowing the cause of the failure is it likely to occur again?
3) Do I have a reasonable claim on the garage that fitted the new alternator?I would very much appreciate any advice you can give me
Thanks
Jeremy