Altanator

[CADDYBILL]

This maybe a basic question, but how do I tell if I have an altenator problem or a regulator problem. If I'm useing my headlights, defroster and have the fan on high my volt gauge drops preaty low and the light dim.
I apreciate any help.
Caddybill

 

[leebo]

I'd like to start off by welcoming you to the site. You'll find anything and everything all right here.

As for your problem. That's a good start. Take it down to a parts store and they can give you a check. Most will do it for free right there on the truck, but from the sounds of things....I'd say it's starting to go.

 

[CADDYBILL]

Thanks Leebo.
If I understand the repair manual my 94 has a regulator that plugs to the side of the altenator, is this true?
I would rather try to test both myself, rather than trust the guys at autozone, you know what I mean? Does any one have any sugestions?
Caddybill

 

[leebo]

The alt. does have a voltage regulator on the side of it. This is so the alt. doesn't work too hard. When the truck doesn't need that much power the regulator puts out only that much....when it needs more it kicks the alt. in the bum and pumps out more juice. Most of the time the regulator isn't the problem though. If you wish to check it go ahead and go to the store and pick one up. They run about $40 or so. Put that on and turn on the toys. If it drops then you've got a bad alt. If it stays the same then your regulator is bad. The hardest part of this though is that you will need to take off the alt. to replace the regulator, then put it on the check it. If it turns out to be the alt. then you must do it all again. In my mind it's easier to trust the store, but I do know what you mean. You may or may not be able to test everything with a voltage meter, but I'm not sure.

 

[carrotcloud]

I thought I had alternator problems on my '87 fullsize Blazer. I took it off and had it "bench tested" at the local parts store. Ended up being a fusible link somewhere from the alternator. Although its always a pain removing an alternator, it did save some $$$.