Volvo Repair: Noise coming out from radio/cd player, radio chassis, engine rev


Question


I've got 1996 850R and had a problem with stereo. If it's connected there will
be a squealing  noise varying by the engine rev. When I turn on the radio or
cd I couldn't hear any music except the loud noise, REGARDLESS the engine is
running or not. Even the key in the first position (not ON position). Also,
there is a ticking noise coming out from the front left speaker when the
brake light goes on and off.  Alternator has been changed but not solved the
problem. Could you suggest any possibilities?

Thank you very much

Answer
  Paul, bad diode in the alternator causes this problem. I know you replaced it, but are you sure it is good? They will still charge with a bad diode, but the current isn't very clean. Fortunately, the battery acts as a giant capacitor and can handle it.
  Otherwise, you have a bad radio or alternator ground somewhere. Most likely, radio chassis.

Mark