Voltage Regulator

[geoffbaltz]

My 951 has some wierd voltage fluctuations on the guage. It will go from 10.5 to just under 12 and then jump to 13.5. The car hasn't died but sometimes it seems like it's going to and if I rev up the motor the guage will go from 10 to 12 real quick.

I think my voltage regulator is screwed up. Any thoughts and where is it? How quick can I get one (ie: is this something I can get a NAPA or do I need to order one from Porsche)?

Thanks in advance.

-g

[Bob's944]

The voltage regulator is part of the brush holder/regulator assembly attached to the back of the alternator (held on by 2 screws and it appears to be removable without removing the alternator, has to be tilted as you remove it from the alternator). I'm not sure exactly how to test if it's bad.

[geoffbaltz]

I found the replacement procedures in the Haynes Manual. Easy stuff. I just wasn't sure if this was in the alternator or somewhere else.

I would like to pick one up tomorrow. I will try the 2 Porsche dealers in town. Does anyone know if I can get the same thing at one of the chains or local jobber stores?

Also, am I correct in my thinking that this will cause the fluctuation in the voltage readings at the guage?

-g

[iepie944]

Your problem is propably caused by the voltage regulator. You can get one at most car supply stores.

For installation I would recommend you to talk the time and remove the alternator. I installed one without removing the alternator. Very hard to get it in the proper way and when it was finally installed and started the engine I suddenly didn't have any current from the alternator. When I removed the voltage regulator again I found one of the brush blocks broken. So it cost me another voltage regulator.

[dberkstr]

For what it's worth: my 83 944na 125,000 mi. was making noise at the alternatoar and the turn signals flashed slowly. I have AC so there is no volt gauge. I removed my alternator and took it to a local alternator rebuilder(look in the yellow pages). For 140 bucks I got a completely rebuilt alternator that even looks like new! I installed it, and what a treat! Did I get over, or what???

[drew1]

Are the ground connections on the alternator good?


drew1

[mlue]

Originally posted by geoffbaltz
My 951 has some wierd voltage fluctuations on the guage. It will go from 10.5 to just under 12 and then jump to 13.5. The car hasn't died but sometimes it seems like it's going to and if I rev up the motor the guage will go from 10 to 12 real quick.

I think my voltage regulator is screwed up. Any thoughts and where is it? How quick can I get one (ie: is this something I can get a NAPA or do I need to order one from Porsche)?

Thanks in advance.

-g

Replacing the voltage regulator and brush holder is probably the answer but you should have the battery checked as well. Bad voltage regulator can lead to problems with the battery. while you're in there check or replace the wires from the battery and the alternator, the wires can have a build up of corosion under the plastic covering.

Mark
'86 944NA