wen my series2 is sittin tickin over its fine and not a single rattle from engine, but wen i switch even just the side lights on a tappety noise starts. the alternator looks quite new, could it be the belt needing replacing?

cheers

 

Is the belt tenstioned correctly?

It's unusual for a belt to make a tappety noise unless it damaged in which case i would expect the noise to be there constantly.

 

i'll have to have a look 2moz wen its light. thats a start tho, so i'll check that

cheers mate

 

Also check the bolts for the alternator and the 17mm headed bolts that hold the alternator bracket to the engine block are tight. The 17mm bolts also hold the heatsheild and if they come loose it can sould like the alternator bearings are knackered!

 

Sounds like the bearings in the alternator are US. When you're switching the lights on the alternator 'steps up a gear' and the load increases/you should find one in a scrappy for around a score. First of all though check that the belt isn't too tight.