The alternator on my '89 Fiesta 1.1 has recently started squealing intermittently. I know it's the alternator becayse when it's happened I've blipped the rear heated windscreen and headlights (as heavy a load as poss) on and off, and it doeasn't happen when they are off.
I can get at the front end (pulley end) of the alternator and, have applied a big drop of oil (keeping it well clear of the belt and pulley) inside the bottom vent holes so it will run down onto that end bearing. I can't get at the other end bearing because there's a big black plastic cap over it. There's no obvious fixing or way of undoing it that I've been able to see. Can anyone please tell me: If I lever off the plastic cap will it do terminal damage to any components of the alternator? If and when I do get it off, will oiling the other (rear) end bearing solve the problem or is the squeal not caused by the bearings at all?
Thank you for your attention,
Mike Jones (of Coedpoeth).