You're saying you can't ask your co-workers because they're too busy, but you can't go to Pepboys because of your co-workers?

Those battery testers they have are idiot-proof, just go to Pep Boys and don't tell your colleagues. Pep Boys can test your alternator too.

 

Pep boys will likely full field test the alternator, and that would bypass the regulator which is the most likely point of failure. Even some generator (thats what they call them these days since they started pushing out 3-phase AC rectified to DC - see illustration) rebuilders only check with full fielding. Make sure whoever checks it out checks the regulator as well.

 

Temperature gauge might be this:
- http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/CheapTri...tml#Thermostat

 

I thought the regulator/rectifier is inside the alternator, as an internal component. I know most motorcycles and ATVs (what I'm used to) have separate regulators/rectifiers, but most of the time they don't have alternators. They have a charging stator, and individual components.

I was under the impression that most automotive alternators had all the componenents combined within it. Please inform me if I'm incorrect.

Keep us updated on the electrical fan install. I know others have done this, is there a noticeable gain in HP?

 

yes, most of the time these days the rectifier and regulator is built inside the housing or onto the outside of the housing of the generator. However, there are several wires to connect from the back of the alternator that internally go to the other functions of the alternator other than simple positive and ground. Full fielding the alternator "skips some steps" that could prove to be diagnostically invaluable.

 

What? I don't want to go to Pepboys because they're idiots and I have access to a shop full of knowledge and tools, I just don't like to bug the techs, by asking them stupid wiring type questions.. And yes, I know how to use a battery tester, I already said the battery tested fine.... Never said I didn't want to be seen at Pepboys because of where I work... It's just pointless to go to a jiffylube shop when I work at a real shop.


And to all you guys raggin' on me about liking Chevys, I never said I like the new ones.... I'd take a rotted out mid 70s K5 or pickup with a million miles on it over a 2010 anything anyday.

Back to the original topic... The truck started up fine and didn't heat up at all today. This thing has a mind of its own.


For the Chevy haters, I've got a 4.3 block sitting in my garage waiting to go in my 'Yota. Hopefully I'll have the money to do the swap within the next year.

 

I like Chevys, a lot. I eat them for lunch.