[proed]

I have a 1992 JD 322 with the Yanmar engine. I am sure the alternator's bearings are starting to seize. I am wanting to take it off and have it rebuilt but not have to replace the belt which admittedly is in poor shape. In case the belt gave way after the alternator is replaced what is the experiance of anyone who has used an industrial strength half inch link belt as a replacement for the stock JD fan/alternator belt? I have read numerous posts that indicate that a belt replacement is at least a 4 hour frustrating job. That would be a minimum $500 job at a JD dealer and potentially a disaster if I start the job and then take it to the dealer - and all for a $10 fan belt. It may be heresy but what say the experts?

 

[proed]

Try this - 322 Fan Bet Replacement

Thank you!

 

[proed]

Try this - 322 Fan Bet Replacement

Thank you!

 

[proed]

Yeah the isolator is 6 challenging bolts vs, the other suggestions with many more parts removals. I don't think the rear of the DS would give you enough room.

I think to move the engine you would have to unbolt the isolator anyway.

I'm tellin' ya, I don't think there are any shortcuts on this one.

ETA: can anyone think of a reason why one of the linkbelts wouldn't work? I think it sounds like the OP should try one and report back. It would certainly be easy compared to the regular belt.

No one said link belts wouldn't work so I'm up to the lesser challenge and will try the link belt. It may be a while till I get back. Training seaon has started for my bird dogs and my grass is mostly dead from drought here in Kansas.

 

[proed]

I understand your position. It has already served me well and has 2,700 hours on it. I have had all work done at a local JD dealer including a recent power steering hydraulic column and other leaks. My wife is a little irritated that a machine made in 1992 can break down! The 322 is an awesome machine, I can't believe what it has done for me, especially with the front end loader I had adapted for it.

 

[proed]

My alternator seized a few years ago and burnt my belt up. It is a pretty big job to replace as has been said so if I had known about a link belt I would have given it a try. All you have to lose is the cost of the belt if it doesn't work and still have to replace belt. I didn't know I could get the alternator repaired so I got an aftermarket one a lot cheaper then Deere.

I'll give it a try - both the alternator and the belt. A garden tractor salvager did say he could get a replacement alternator for $80. I see the JD price is about $250.

 

[proed]

Be sure you get the correct belt. I found out the hard way the original JD part number for the belt was too short. Made the job take much longer to change the belt twice back before they changed to the new part number. Believe they were: old M800048 and new M811281. Been a few years but 33" vs 34" or something like that. Replacing the bearings in the dynamo is easy. I have extra bearings if you need some. Also, I have new wiring for the dynamo as well as the leads to the voltage regulator. Let me know if I can help.

Thank you! I may take you up on those bearings. I'll have to take the alternator off first and see for sure that's the issue.
Paul