Alternator reads 11.14 v when truck is running; also mentions diode is fried. He had some cool gadget that had a little paper receipt type printer ; my mechanic says replace alternator. I read a post in December that mentioned only using Ford part. Any thoughts on going with discount brand?

Dutch

 

Alternator replacement, at least on my 1990 5.8, could not be any easier. With the serpentine belt, you don't even have to mess with the belt at all. I replaced my alternator in ten minutes.

As for quality, I think even the Ford alternators that you get at the dealer are remanufactured. If they are new, it might be worth the price. I had to replace a reman on mine because the bearing was making noise. It charged fine. I got another reman as I didn't have time or money for anything else.

We've been down this road before on this site, as far as reman parts. The general consensus for an alternator is, if you have the time, have it rebuilt by a reputable local shop. I would make sure that they replace any bearings inside it as well.

 

Thanks, yes I did read the extended posts regarding alternator remans,etc. I have a good shop at work where parts have come from the same supplier for about 15 years so, I'll go that route

 

90% of alternators sold are reman from mexico.
I have never heard of using only ford parts in alternators, But I work in one of the best shop in south texas, we replace the bearings, regulators and retrofit certain alternators to upgrade them. Im probly guessing that you have a 2g in your bronco, if it has 2 plugs. On those, we replace the rectifier with an upgrade that changes one of the plugs to a stud for better conection.
just my 2cents.

 

Cool, good insight on the remans... I have the standard alternator: not the amped up version. This alternator job will give the students in auto mechaics something to do tomorrow.

Dutch

 

If you have a Bronco with a 2G (second generation) alternator, identified by the fan blades behind the pulley, I would replace it with a 3G alternator from a 1995 or so Mustang. You get 130 amps instead of 70. There are a number of websites on how to do the swap - it's a pretty easy thing to do. It's great to be able to come to a stop with the heater on full blast and not have the headlights go dim!!