Big problem, have it narrowed down

[davesexplorer]

This morning when i got up and started the X ;something was wrong my headlights were dim, my windshield wipers were slower than sh;t, and i was only gettin 11.8 volts W/ engine running, Big problem, so i checked the battery, it was ok, tried a new one anyway, didn't work, so i have it narrowed to the VOLTAGE REGULATOR, OR ALTERNATOR

Does anyone know how to tell which one it is?, i have a multimeter/voltometer.

How many amps is the stock alt? I think i read 130?

And can i get a higher amp alternator that fits stock, If i need one? 150-180?

I just need to find out which one it is, so i can replace it ASAP!!!!!

Thanks in advance!!!!!

 

[Alec]

The alternator you have depends on your year and model, please fill those out in your member profile. I suggest getting your alt and v.r. checked at your local auto parts store. And relax

 

[davesexplorer]

cool, and i have a 95 XLT, ya know if i got a 130 amp, if not that what ill probably get.

i guess then ill have to replace alt, and volt regulator?

 

[JDraper]

The voltage regulator is built into the back of the alternator on the Explorer's (and lots of other vehicles too). Sounds like it's time for a new alternator.

 

[davesexplorer]

welp facing a 200 dollar bill for alt and volt regulator, i thought id search the board and came up with people saying that the wire might be at fault (B+) so i broke out the wiring diagram and went to work, i ran a new 4guage wire from the alternator to the battery distribution and Viola!!! all is well again, boy i am happy i know about this awesome board!!! saved me $200!!!! just one question though, the old wire had a "fusible link" what is this, is it a regular in-line fuse or what? i dont have a fuse there now, but if someone knows a value fuse to plug in-line, lemme know.

Back to explorin' again!!! :redexp:

 

[Robert]

A fuseable link is like a one time only fuse. It is a piece of metal that is rated at a certain amperage. If the draw ever exceeds it, the link will blow out preventing a possible fire. Without a fuseable link in ther now, whatever your weakest link will be the item to fry if you have an electrical problem. It could be a wire in an impossible to reach location or a costly electronic device. As a minimum I would put a fuse on the line.

 

[VOATMJ1]

I agree, put in a fuse on that line, and be quick about it before something happens. (Murphy's Law).

I accidently hooked up jumper cables the wrong way, (it was dark) and the only thing that saved me was that the fuseable link blew, and protected my computer, and God only knows what else!

Cheap insurance, which is why Ford and just about every other car manufacturer puts them in. Just my 2 cents!

 

[davesexplorer]

anybody know what size fuse to put in there????