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Jan 13, 2004 | 06:44 PM

thuggishruggish3000

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From: canada

alternator question

hey everyone, i have a 1980 f150 302 engine, right now i have an external voltage regulator and i need to replace the alternator, but the auto store i went to told me that the new alternators have an internal regulator, so how would i wire that so i can bypass the external regulator, without damaging any components.

please help.

Jan 13, 2004 | 07:51 PM

ecarter50

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Alternators with external regulators are still available. If your parts store cannot find the correct alternator I would find a new parts store.

Jan 13, 2004 | 07:57 PM

dnmyoda

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From: Vermont

I don't know were your going but autozone or advance auto parts have the external

Jan 13, 2004 | 08:02 PM

wildjon300ci

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From: Conyers

Yep, I just bought one a few weeks ago for a buddy...and I have 2 spares here at the house.

Jan 14, 2004 | 12:35 AM

GypsyR

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Joined: Jul 2003

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From: SC

The easiest way to fix the truck is just buy the correct rebuilt alternator. These available everywhere as every Ford from '66 until around the middle '80s used close to the same design. We're talking millions of these out there on the road now. If your parts man isn't aware of this, go somewhere else and never return to that store.
On the other hand if you're talking about "upgrading" that's another story. Most people only do this so they can use a stronger alternator for stereo amps, electric fans, snow plows, etcetera. Generally the more capable alternators are "internally regulated" and it's a project to get one to work. Not that hard though. Here's some links to instructions and ideas
http://www.mralternator.com/

http://home.earthlink.net/~ehicking/.../3Ginstall.jpg

Jan 14, 2004 | 07:25 AM

thuggishruggish3000

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From: canada

Thanks guys, i will probably end up finding a new autoparts store, or i might be able to get the old alternator rebuilt, but it depends on the price of both a new, rebuilt or one from a junk yard, whatevers cheaper..

thanks again

Jan 14, 2004 | 10:50 AM

85F_150driver

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From: Rose City, MI

i got one from autozone about 3 months ago that is externally regulated and it was only like $40. I also put a new voltage regulater and battery in at the same time.