I got an alternator from an 80's Ford diesel at pullapart. Forgot to grab the regulator(external). Took the alternator to the local auto store, they tested it and said it was good. They also sold me a regulator for an 86 Ford diesel(this was a couple days ago). Tonight the regulator went out. I think they sold me a regulator for a smaller alternator. This one is pretty big, I'd guess between 100-150amps. Tonight was the first time that I drove it at night so all the lights, heater, etc were on, feel like that drew more power than the reg could handle and fried it.

Does anyone know the part number for a heavy duty voltage reg?
Here's a pic of the alt incase anyone wants to see

 

Hi Colin,

I have a couple questions. First, what is the part number on the alternator.

You need to buy the regulator that is made for this alternator. And knowing what vehicle it is off of doesn't really help - it may have been an add on.

Second, how are you distributing power in your truck? Fuse panels?

 

That's a Ford 1G 70-100 amp alternator used from the mid 70's to the early 90's when the high output 3G units went into production. All the large frame 70-100 amp alternators used the same regulator regardless of the exact ampere capacity. The correct regulator for that alternator is Airtex/Wells 1V1031, Motorcraft GR540B, or AC Delco F609. You can look it up by application for a 1990 E-250 van with a 351W and the 100 amp alternator.

 

thanks, I'll order one today.
Yes it gets power through a fuse panel(EZ wire kit).

 

Unless your truck is unusual, I doubt it was drawing more than 30-40 amps for more than a few seconds. The alternator will only put out what the system demands. I'd be suspicious that the regulator blew from high current.

 

Your absolutely right Ross!

In a scenario where its cold raining at night, the headlights, defroster, engine requirements, wipers, and accessories (discounting any huge stereo system or electric cooling fans) shouldn't be pulling any more than 40 amps.

That's why I asked about power distribution. If the AWG on the wires supplying power to the distribution is not big enough, or the wires out to the appliances is too small, OR the fuse panel base is not heavy enough (which is something we haven't talked about much), then the regulator get's into a "push me pull you" situation.

On our trucks, unless you have electric cooling fans plus an electric fuel pump, plus 4 headlights, plus a boom box stereo, the is absolutely no reason in the world to run an alternator larger than the standard 60 amp rated alternators.

Burning out a regulator like this is more indicitave of a short or improper wiring (like trying to wire an external regulated Ford alternator like a GM Alternator, straight to the battery.)

Power distribution is critical in charging system configuration and function.