Alternator -Leave alone, rebuild, or Replace?
 

We're replacing the belts, rollers, & the water pump but I'm wondering what to do about the alternator. The car has 87k on it and it hasn't been running in two yrs. I have no idea if its working (I could take it to Auto Zone and have it tested).

Should I leave the alternator alone, rebuild, or buy new/rebuilt unit. My gut feeling is "if it ain't broke, don't mess w/it", but since its easily accessable it sure is tempting. Suggestions please!

rebuild it.. why not?.. or replace it...

Mike, Don't bother. Leave it as is. to quote yourself "Don't fix what ain't broken" Why spend the money if you do not have too.

Ross
'87 944S/968 conversion

When you get it started check the voltage across the battery terminals.

13.8 to 14.4 volts DC says the alternator is working. 14 or better is preferred.

Seldom do the Bosch alternators die. If you do have a low charging voltage just replacing a $20 regulator in the back of it saves the $160 for a rebuilt.

Good advice listen SoCal.

Where are you buying a regulator for $20.00 ? Best I found was $56.00 (1982 924na) The Alt was shot on mine, I converted to a 1979 Camaro alt for $51.00. Small tweaking to fit, now 14vt solid, and cheap to replace in the future.

I got it from IceShark!!!

He also has the adjustable regulators.

That is why I posted my question! I'm going to check the voltage after we get it running (hopefully by the 28th).

Thanks for everyone's feedback!!!

What Socal said... "extreme Bowing and homage" to Socal

Frank B

Mike, which yellow?.. the Light yellow or the Rich yellow?..

I bought the battery cable setup from Iceshark over on the other board...........

All I can say is WOW.

It comes with the adjustable voltage regulator, larger cables, extra ground cables............all I can say very impressive...

Changing the regulator would be a great idea...the brushes on mine were worn almost to the metal contacts (original alternator)...I would normally get 13.5 volts from the alternator....I am hoping to pull at least 14 volts out of it now..

Also bought the light update kit as well........

SoCal has helped me more than I care to admit! He has as well as other on this board have been a GREAT source of info!!! We should have the car running by the end of the week. When that happens, I'm buying a round of drinks for everyone!

NOTE/DISCLAIMER: The term "everyone" regards those members who happen to be in Huntsville the day that we 944 transitions from WIP (work in progress) to FMC (Fully Mission Capable)!

BTW, It is Summer Yellow, so I'm guessing that its a light or soft yellow. Ross T and I have discussed this in detail and I think its a yellow vs biege. I'll post a pic later.

M