replace alternator with used or replace voltage regulator? Topic is solved

[coded9]

Replace the voltage regulator or alternator with a low mile used OEM one;
I made the mistake of putting a Duralast alternator in my car 4 years ago. I couldn't have any downtime and the cars in the yard had 300k+ on them. I've since used the lifetime warranty on it 4 times...
Junk.

Pretty much described the volvo's at pick n pull, still they were picked over pretty good. I've heard of some bad stories about using aftermarket on these cars, which is why I don't want to stray too far from OE/OEM path. I'm pretty tempted to go with a new voltage regulator at this point.

[abscate]

I could have a look at my picked ones to see brush length

[vtl]

Those cheap under $200 alternators don't last.

Rebuild your alternator: both bearings, pulley, slip rings (if worn), bearing tolerance ring, regulator. I used NTN bearings, opened them and packed with more grease. Slip rings were fine, kept originals. Tested diodes as well.

[coded9]

See I tried swapping out the regulator with the junkyard unit (brushes were in much better shape), had no effect when I had it re-tested. I managed to get some input though on the noise (turns out the coming from it isn't normal, shows what I know about these things). I tried doing a bit of an exploratory disassembly of the bad alternator I got from the junkyard, I realized pretty quickly that's way above my skill level, had a lot of trouble getting it back together. I got a quote of $92 from a local alternator shop to rebuild it, I'm gonna have that done once the regulator gets in (already ordered).

[coded9]

I managed to find a rebuilder near me. Funny thing is when I brought my regulator in he asked where I got it I told him about FCP and the warranty. He said they sell it cheaper than he can get it! More so that they have their lifetime warranty on a regulator! Wound up being 80 to rebuild and it works!