Autoelectro has produced some useful guidance on an issue affecting the alternator pulley on popular Mercedes-Benz LCV application.This common fault is on the Mercedes Benz Sprinter (1999-2006) and affects diesel models with the part numbers AEA3201, AEC1299, AEC1481, AEC1489 and AEC1630.

The issue centres on an alternator pulley failure, caused by a stretched/worn belt. Over a prolonged period, the vehicle’s drive belt stretches. As it elasticises, an incorrect load is applied to the alternator pulley set-up, which results in excessive vibration within the drive belt system and can cause the failure of the alternator pulley and/or bearings.

Technicians must inspect the belt and, if it exceeds 2,100mm in length, the part must be replaced. It is recommended that a 6PK2100 belt is installed and an additional guide pulley is connected between the power steering pump pulley and crankshaft pulley.

More technical tips and advice are available at the Autoelectro website free-of-charge at www.autoelectro.co.uk.