Alternator Problems?

[yopurp]

Ok, first electrical issue:

Now that my MFI is behaving better, I noticed another problem last week. The RED alternator light started flickering for a few days, and then stayed on permanently. On Friday, my batteries died.

I had a new VR put in about 4 mos ago by my 'reputable' mechanic because he said it wasn't charging properly. I've checked my belt and its plenty tight. I looked up alternators and they are $350-500!!! Any other ideas before I take it in? Also, anyone know where to find a decent price on a new Alternator?

[69911T]

Check prices at this CA shop.


Bosch Alternator and Starter Rebuilds
SPU
562-944-3221
Jim

[pwd72s]

Also:
http://www.systemsc.com/

Located in the L.A. area...

[yopurp]

THanks for the sources guys.

Is this a do it yourself thing? Also, 55amp for a '73, correct? Whats the diff between Bosche and Marchal?

[69911T]

Chris,
I've always let the pros rebuild this stuff...I like the warrantee and the price is reasonable when you figure all the tools and inventory they must keep.

I don't know the diffrence between Marchal and Bosch...I've always thought Bosch was a premium brand (it ought to be for the prices they charge ) but it may well be that Marchal is just as good???

[yopurp]

Ed,

Thanks. I wasn't planning on rebuilding it, but rather installing it myself (can I do 'that' myself?).

Tweeks catalogue says that both Marchal and Bosch were used in 70-73 cars. Apparently the threads are different??? Just looking for some bboard knowledge before I dive in with the 'pros'.

[69911T]

Howdy Chris,
Since you are a west coast person, as am I (Chico) I'll share with you that I have no confidence in anything that Tweeks has to say or sell. Pelican has most of my answers; Wayne and the gang usually can tell you what's what.

I don't know your DIY skill level...it's very simple, no special tricks. Take the ALt. out and have a local rebuilder check it out and tell you which kind it is. Then, if its Bosch call the folks I mentioned in a previous post...if not, you'll have to do some more research as I don't have any experience with anything but Bosch.

[yopurp]

Ed,

Thanks. Chico is a great town. Some good roads back behind there as I recall from my college days.

I was looking through Wayne's book, looks like 4 hours and two toolguys (skill level) to replace the alternator. I might just get brave enough. I'll at least do some of the troubleshooting before I go further.

Now that I"ve played with the MFI (with help) I"m feeling brave. Famous last words I'm sure.

[WHCJr72S]

Chris:
Removing and replacing the alternator is not very hard. I did it about 15 years ago. Follow Wayne's book and take your time. You will probably need a tool to remove the outer fan pulley half to remove the fan belt. Remove the belt as the first step. Call if you need help.

[yopurp]

Thanks again Bill. And if I'm stuck I'll call you. I'm gone for the next 2 weeks, so it probably won't be till end of the month.