I was doing some canyon driving and I noticed my battery light came on. When I got to where I was going, I shut the car down and started it up after a few minutes. Battery light was still on, but the idle hunted around at the same frequency as the volt meter gage was oscillating between 12volts and ~15 volts. Subsequently, after a few minutes of running, the voltage is steady at ~15volts but the battery light is still on.

I'm assuming it is the voltage regulator. I guess the big question is Do I have to put the car in "Field service mode" (remove the front bumper etc..) for the alternator replacement? I'm just looking at shaving some time off of the repair so your input is very appreciated.

Thanks,

Mike

EDIt: Voltage measured at battery after the oscillating stops is 13.85 volts.

 

Yes you have to remove the front carrier (or pull it forward) to get at the alternator. The voltage regulator is integral with the alternator.

 

^+1

Before you take stuff apart, did you get your electrical system tested? Places like Autozone, Advance Auto, etc... will do this for free.

 

Typically a voltage of 15 or high means you alternator is working pretty hard. Your alternator is likely on it way out but I would recommend you get it tested like the others say. If you take your alternator out make sure to get your starter check since they are right next to each other. It will safe yourself sometime in the future if it's get old as well.

 

Replaced the alternator and everything is fine. Since the front carrier had to come off, I ordered some coolant and a lower temperature fan switch.
Only problem I encoutered was that the threaded plug that is pressed in the back tab of the alternator was protruding out too far (about .035" too far) on the inboard side of the mount. I just machined the threaded plug on the inside of the mount (see attached figure of the alternator, arrow is where I had to machine it). This was an AutoZone duralast alternator (ECS, etc were all backordered). Anyone else have like fitment issues with the alternator?

-Mike