Fluctuating/inconsistent voltage

[a2thy]

I'd really like to figure out why my voltage keeps fluctuating they way it does, but my possibly related headlight problem is far more urgent. I'm tired of not being able to drive at night. Here's a link to that thread:
http://therangerstation.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1524666#post1524666

 

[4x4junkie]

Try another (known good) regulator on your alternator. They actually are quite easy to change, just have a small nail or something on hand so you can pin the brushes back so you can insert the VR assembly into the alt (or just try a whole 'nother alt instead if that's easier for you).

As I said earlier, I had a VR that did just what you are saying. Swapping it with another VR took care of the problem.

 

[a2thy]

My understanding is that the alternator and VR for the 2.3l are sold as one unit and cannot be sold separately, at least not from my local dealership and parts stores. Could you provide me with some information on the most reputable brands for VRs, if they can be bought separately from the alternator, and where I may be able to find them?

 

[4x4junkie]

Motorcraft.

They're all over Ebay:
http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_fro...rcraft+voltage+regulator+1997+ranger&_sacat=0

I'm sure you could find something on Amazon too (or just yank the OE one out of any junkyard Ford alternator that is rated same current & is similar design as yours... make sure it's a genuine Motorcraft one though).


And FWIW, autozone indeed sells regulators separate from the alt:
http://www.autozone.com/batteries-s...er-2wd/1997/4-cylinders-a-2-3l-efi/19162_0_0/

Only thing is AZ's may not be actual Motorcraft regulators, so no guarantee you won't end up with one that does the same thing.

 

[a2thy]

Thank you for that. No Autozones near me though :/ I'll probably go through eBay.

 

[ratdude747]

How long was the warranty on the alternator?

If it came as part of it, it's covered by the warranty. May be too late by now, but if not, then just Warranty the alternator and call it a day.