98 F-150 5.4 Voltage Regulator/Alternator
 

Hello. I've replaced the battery in order to even get my truck back home, but the battery indicator light still comes on and flickers. I moved some wires while my wife watched the light and she said it when crazy at the time I messed with the wires where they plug into the voltage regulator on the back. They are not exposed and were'nt grounding on the body. The Volt Reg is about $60 bucks at O'rI and a new Alt is $189 at AZ.

Has anyone had experience replacing just the Volt Reg vs the whole ALt and how did it work out? I've pulled the alternator, can they test it at AZ and tell if it is the Volt Reg only vs the whole alternator? I figure they will tell me I need a new alternator even if it is just the Volt reg. Any advice would be appreciated!! Oh, also...how do you know if you need a 95 or 130 amp alternator?

Thanks,
Steve

I would replace the whole unit if it is original. The brushes are probably pretty well worn. It should be stamped in the alt. somewhere, but I would get the 130amp.

I replaced just the brushes/ regulator about 70,000 miles ago and its still going strong. If I remember right, I got the parts at NAPA.

brushes ride on two brass rings insdie. they take a real beating by the time you get 150k miles. I would go fo the entire alternator. If you have a small 6 cylinder, you probably got the 95 amp. The 130 is more common for bigger motor and more options or towing package. Either will fit the hole.

I did end up replacing the whole thing and changed the serp belt while I was at it. Everything seems to be fine an the battery indicator light has not come on since. Thanks!!

I just replaced the voltage regulator on my 97 F150. The battery light was flashing intermittently. Steve's right as usual. I have 145K on mine and the brushes were worn out. AZ said they didn't carry and alternator and Pepboys had the regulator without the brushes assembly. Got one at Ford for $81 and it's all fine now. Only wish I could have replaced just the brushes. Probably would have been MUCH less.:-X22