Alternator

2wagons · Post by **2wagons** » Mon Dec 06, 2004 9:31 pm

Hello,
Just a question concerning my alternator. I have an 87 wagon that the lights dim when I turn on accessories. Had a local shop clean and inspect the alternator. Although it appears to be OEM, it was rebuilt by ÃƒÂ¢Ã¢â€šÂ¬Ã…â€œWorld ClassÃƒÂ¢Ã¢â€šÂ¬Ã‚

takza · Post by **takza** » Tue Dec 07, 2004 5:44 am

'83 uses the external regulator.....

sacwac · Post by **sacwac** » Mon Dec 13, 2004 10:24 am

Does the alternator itself look different, or does just the plug look different??

2wagons · Post by **2wagons** » Mon Dec 13, 2004 12:19 pm

Sacwac, The alternator does look different. The 83 is more cylindrical and deeper- kind og like a big coffe can, and it looks more substantial. The 87 is smaller and shorter, with a much smaller pulley diameter, it also appears to have more pronounced cooling fins. I think the alternator is supposed to be 55 watts. Guess I'll look at junk yard parts.

Chris · Post by **Chris** » Wed Dec 15, 2004 11:18 pm

The 83's are fitted with either an internal regulator or an external regulator. I have two wagons from this year and one has an internal, the other an external. The dimensions of the mounting points are different on the 83 and 87. I tried this route when my 86 alternator failed. I ended up replacing the internal regulator on the 86 alternator. My first thoughts are that one of the stator windings have failed or a diode or two has failed. I'm not sure about the 87's, but the 86's can be equipped with either an internal or external regulator. Brushes occassionally need to be replaced also. I've done this twice on my 86 with 327,000 miles. If you want to use the 83 alt you will probably need to swap out the mounting bracket (that is assuming both alts have internal regulators). Feel free to contact me if you would like any assistance with checking out components on your alternator.

Typrus · Post by **Typrus** » Thu Dec 16, 2004 1:58 am

Ok, not trying to hi-jack the post, but I also have an alternator problem. More a connector problem. The kind of connector I have doesn't snap in, so under high-engine vibration or really harsh road conditions, it pops out and I have to pull over to plug it back in. This won't go over well on the highway I'm sure. Any sugestions to keep it from popping out, other than super glue <_< lol.
BTW, I've found that the best route is to go with a new/remanufactured one from NAPA or Autozone and get the core refund. They are least likely to fail and often come with limited lifetime warrenties.

takza · Post by **takza** » Thu Dec 16, 2004 3:51 am

Make sure you have a good connx...clean the plug & receptacle with rubbing alcohol..to get any oil off...plug it in...smear a minor amount of silicone (RTV) around the gap between the plug & receptacle...should hold OK and still is removable?

Typrus · Post by **Typrus** » Thu Dec 16, 2004 10:09 am

I should've thought of that lol.