I have a 1999 eb expy 5.4L that just had a new engine put in every since then the alternator light flashes at irregular intervals , I replaced the battery and went away for a while but back now ! I dont drive very often because im replacing the air ride with coils and I and I just got the parts today . should I reground the alternator or replace the starter and positive cable assembly,and also since I got it back the power steering whines like a bitch I had it bled and still whining (driving me nuts ) while im under the truck replacing springs im going to look at the lines and see if it is leaking to start I will keep updating with what I find but would appreciate any insight !!!!! thanks for all your help this site is absolutly amazing with very knowledgable people .

 

I'd check all your alternator connections first and make sure they're secure. If that doesn't take care of it, then pull your alternator and take it in and have it tested. If it's a NAPA alternator, I've had issues with new (remanufactured) ones myself and I heard of others having problems with them.

 

The PS pump has a leak on the suction/return side, that's what's causing the noise.

While you're check the alternator wiring, take a look at the belt to make sure it's in good shape. Also check the tensioner to make sure it's keeping the belt nice and snug.

 

I will be sure to look at those thanks for the quick reply!!!!!!!!!

 

I would put my money on your alternator being shot. I had the same problem awhile back and I eventually ended up stranded on the side of the road after the truck drained the battery. Get the alternator checked asap

 

If you have a local reputable starter/generator shop they should check the built in regulator as that is often what goes bad. You might also have a loose or nearly broken tickler wire going to the alternator.

 

Other then counting the grooves on the existing pulley, how does one determine if one need an alternator with 6 or 8 grooves? Is it determined by engine size?

Thanks

 

If you have a good local shop it won't make a difference as they would rebuild yours to stock and could increase the amp output at the same time for a minimal increased cost. Most alternators have a oem output rating stamped onto the outside body.
My '00 Navigator had the 8 groove pulley and the '01 engine I put into it had a 6 groove pulley. I used the 8 groove pulley and it was not hard to change. The proper tool is available to rent, free, from Advance or Auto Zone.

 

Thanks Moto!

I counted the grooved on my Serp belt and there's 8 ribs so I'm going to go with 8.

BTW, I wish I had a good local alternator shop. There use to be one, but they shut down about 4 years ago. :-(

 

I had similar issues with my 1997 Expy's alternator. When I ordered a Ford replacement, I went with a Ford rebuilt unit. There was only one part number available. When it came, it had a 6 grove pulldy and I needed 8. My Ford Parts guy could not order anything different, so I simply changed the pulleys, and put my old pulley on the new alternator. I haven't had any issues since.

The part number I used was " F6PZ*10346*EARM1 " which is good for vehicles manufactured up to 6/28/97. MSRP is $221.73, but you shouldn't pay more than $173 from you wholesale counter. Good luck!
<TABLE border=0 cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=3 width="100%" align=center><TBODY><TR><TD style="BORDER-TOP: #24569d 4px double" class=tabletext>Alternator, expedition, to 6/28/97 </TD><TD style="BORDER-TOP: #24569d 4px double" class=tabletext noWrap align=middle>1997 </TD><TD style="BORDER-TOP: #24569d 4px double" class=tabletext align=right>$221.73</TD><TD style="BORDER-TOP: #24569d 4px double" class=tabletext vAlign=top align=right>$75.00</TD><TD style="BORDER-TOP: #24569d 4px double" class=tabletext align=right>$172.95</TD></TR><TR><TD class=tabletext colSpan=5>Alternator </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

 

Yup, the big box stores are killing off the independents as fast as they can. Pretty soon we won't be able to rebuild or repair anything even if we have the tools and the skill as the parts will not be availble in small enough quantities.
Ain't technology grand?