Replacing voltage regulator
 

2 Quick questions:

1. Is it reasonably easy to replace the voltage regulator on a 86 Carrera (internal type) without removing the alternator/fan assembly completely out of the car?

2. Is there any particular reason why I should prefer to do it this way, or is it a slam dunk to remove/replace the fan/alternator assembly? This will be my first time in there.

Thx.

if its bolted to the back of the alternator?
yeah you have to take it out
not hard. just make note of the wiring and the little nuts
holding the air diverter can be a little tricky
youll figure it out once its unbolted

Dave,
First step, remove the ground wire at the battery. Clean up the connections at the battery.
Take it out. Once you have it free, it's quite simple.
You'll need some small wrenches, 8mm if I remember.
Clean up the ground wire. Note how it is connected to the alternator.
Write down the wire connections, take a picture if you have a digital camera.
Get a strong light and check the top of the motor, clean as necessary.
If you loosen the nut holding the pulley together, note how many spacers inside and outside the pulley. Might be a good time to replace your V-belt.
It's a 2 band-aid job.
You may want to get the alternator tested at your local auto parts before you re-install it.
Check the bearings for smooth operation. Any play or noise, replace the bearings.
When you install the V-belt, recheck the tension after a few miles.
Should be snug, no slipping.

Dave I did mine. I also replaced the bearings and the reg. The rear bearing is held in with a plastic cover. Don't try to pry it out just push it from the outside in. I hope this helps. Just be careful of the wire hookups. Thanks Mark

The Technical article section of Pelican is worth a look too -->

http://www.pelicanparts.com/techarticles/911_volt_reg_replace/911_volt_reg_replace.htm

- Wil

I recently remove the alternator to get rebuilt. Wil's technical article (Thanx, Wil :)) has EVERYTHING you need to do the job yourself. Small hands definitely help, but not necessary.

I originally was going to replace just the VR, but had the alternator completely rebuilt instead. I still have the new-from-Pelican VR if you want it - $50/no shipping and it's yours. Let me know...

Thanks for the help guys. I'll pull the whole thing out.