It appears that I need to replace my alternator. I have a 2002 E-150 5.4 w/AC. It takes a 115 amp alternator, but all I can find is one brand (dealer) alternator. There are several 130amp types. So I ask you...

1. How hard is this to replace?

2. Where is the voltage regulator?

3. Can I replace the 115 amp with a 130 amp type?

Thanks

 

How do you know what you have is bad ?? 1. not very hard at all with common hand tools. 2. I believe the voltage reg is built into the alt. 3. should be no problem stepping up to a 130 amp.

 

With AC off and in park (and reving the engine), puts out around 14 (based on the dash gauge). With AC on, and foot on brake, and idling, needle starts to dive down to 8 and things start to go out (radio, lights, etc).

How to you change to the 130 amp?

 

The 130 amp alternator should be the same mechanical/electrical configuration as the 115 amp unit. Pull the 115 and put the 130 in its place.

 

I'm planning to upgrade to a 190 amp that puts out 100 amps at idle...should be a direct swap.

 

Ok. Had the battery tested at O'Reilly's. Guy said the battery was fine. Tested the alternator, said bad diode. Advised me to either pull the alternator and have it tested on their machine, or take it to a mechanic. I noticed as I drove it to the store that the gauge was fluctuating but not as bad as it was yesterday.

Any thoughts?

 

If you have a local automotive electrical shop, have the alternator rebuilt; otherwise, replace it with an OEM or a rebuilt from your parts dealer.