$22 alternator fix

MineralCobra

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Recently my alternator (ford remanufactured unit) started acting all weird with voltage dipping into 10s at random. It did not completely go but once it got hot the voltage would vary, one moment it would be 12 then it would drop to 11, 10s then back to 13 :nonono:. I kind of knew what my options were since I read many posts with alternator issues and reviews. Nevertheless some of these prices were insane.

I ended up ordering another ford remanufactured unit from the dealer, unfortunately the unit came defective. At this moment I did not feel like waiting for another one and remembered reading on Cobra-Terminator.com how simple it was to rebuild them. I called a local reputable alternator/starter rebuild shop to inquire about rebuild kit. The guys were awesome and actually tested the diodes on the alternator for free. I went their with the intention to buy a rectifier and a regulator. I only needed the regulator which was $22 with tax. But the best part is the regulator he sold me was a Motorcraft unit !!. The regulator that was originally in there (ford rema) had a aftermarket regular which he stated were very cheap.

Long story short, I placed the new regulator in closed the case and the car holds a steady 13.6 volts at all times. This process was very simple and easy. I also like the fact that the regulator was an actually Motorcraft unit.


here is a youtube link I got from cobra-terminator.com how to open and rebuild our 6G alternators. This shows in detail how to and what to look for as for worn parts etc.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iGIdnOwHZUM

Big thanks to jrgoffin for the great info on his page.
 
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Bdubbs

u even lift bro?
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Awesome! Looks like I can try to rebuild my stocker, even though I have a nations now.
 

MineralCobra

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Awesome! Looks like I can try to rebuild my stocker, even though I have a nations now.

The nation piece is nice, but never hurts to have a spear one.

Glad I can keep the good info out there. Here's the correct link, however:

http://www.terminator-cobra.com/electrical.htm#Alternator

More good tech I wrote at ModFords:

http://www.modularfords.com/threads/235857-Terminator-quot-Alternator-101-quot

Thanks for the correction, it was late at night when I was typing this lol I'll update the post when I get home.

I keep forgetting to grab the spare alternator my buddy has to rebuild it. I was thinking of going with this kit when I finally do it.

http://aspwholesale.com/upgrade-kit-fd-6g-200a-p6219.html

Depends what condition of the alternator is, I believe the two main components that fail are the regulator and rectifier when there are charging issues. But it's a good time to inspect the bearings and rest of the components. The you tube link above really goes into detail what to look for.

Also the guys at the shop mentioned that ford uses very good copper wire, something like military grade.. can't remember word for word.
 

cj428mach

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American Muscle sells rebuild kits for the 03-04 Cobra Alternator from PA. I think they run $65, and they include bearings, regulator, brushes, etc.
 

START 'N CHARGE

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You also should have the slip-rings turned to get them true again or you'll just have premature brush wear/failure again.The rebuilder should have told you that.Good luck!
 

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