Hey guys about two weeks ago my Mazda B-2200 started to make a "whooshing" noise, also the lights started to flicker. A mechanic told me its the alternator, but I have been driving it since no problems starting (or even when I am just sitting there with the radio on, car off). So it cannot be the alternator, right?

My grandfather gifted me the truck, he bought it brand new in 92. So I know it has not been abused. Any input guys? I have been lurking forums since but was unable to find anything so I decided to make an account lol.

The kms on my truck right now is 276,000+. The motor has been replaced only 40k on the motor. The catylac converter also has been taken out I have been told.

Also the truck idles high between 1.5 and 2 thousand ..

 

The light only flicker when the ignition is running all lights flicker (headlights, interior, taillights, ect)

It's a standard, fuel injected, extended cab model.

 

It does sound like a diode in the alternator has died, your alternator is now only working at 2/3 efficiency, the flicker you see is the 1/3 of it that does not put out power.