alternator replacement 77 930, opinions?

[bkreigsr]

The subject of my upcoming alternator replacement arose at a social gathering this weekend, and our local tuner advised that the recommended 'way to go' is replace my present alternator and external voltage regulator with an upgraded unit (Valeo) with an internal VR. Apparently the conversion involves some re-wiring, which I am hesitant to perform myself.
What gives with this?
Should I convert or just replace the vr and alt as planned. (no elec add-ons in the car, basically stock)
Do the pros of conversion outweigh the cons?
thanks
Bill K

[Tom F2]

I had mine rebuilt locally for $85. I guess that the parts are still available. This was also from a 77 930.

[bkreigsr]

thanks Tom, did you replace the VR at the same time?

[Tom F2]

Originally posted by bkreigsr
thanks Tom, did you replace the VR at the same time?

No.

[Early_S_Man]

Bill,

I vote for the local rebuild, too! That 980 Watt Marchal alternator is the best, most reliable EVER put on a 911! Don't believe the 'upgrade' hype about the later alternators with built-in regulator!

Also, a properly-working Voltage regulator need not be replaced after the rebuild.

[bkreigsr]

Thanks Warren.
Do I run the risk of trashing a re-built alternator if I have a bad VR?
(I am showing zero charge across the battery poles at all rpm's)
Bill K

[ocjason]

Where did you get your alternator rebuilt at?

[kach22i]

I picked up a rebuilt one from an authorized rebuilder, 15 min. wait, 1-year warrenty $100.

I kept the external regulator setup, but went to a repair shop near my houseafterwords to get a charging test and verify all was okay before trusting the old voltage regulator, a well spent $35.

related thread:
Alternator Ground Strap

[bkreigsr]

thanks kach. I saw that thread this am and have subscribed.
I'll have to make a note as to where the ground is connected in my diagram when removing the alt. Also, I do not know if the unit has ever been in/out so I don't want to fall into that trap of re-wiring it incorrectly either.
Bill K

[bkreigsr]

Car is back on the road, I think.
The alternator I removed had been replaced by DPO with a re-man Bosch w internal VR. So I had it rebuilt (actually I think the shop just swapped it for a re-man Valero). Anyhow, after I fired it up, I read 14 volts across the battery terminals at 1,200rpm. I was too tired to take it out for road test, that's tonight. (Don't ask me how a 40 minute job turned out to be 6 hours)
Should I be concerned?
thanks
Bill K

[Tom F2]

Originally posted by bkreigsr

Should I be concerned?
thanks
Bill K

Sounds like all's well, to me.