Quote:
Originally Posted by pooleo
Start your truck. Remove positve battery cable. If truck dies, your alternator is bad. If truck does not die, alternator is fine. While truck is running with cable removed, turn on headlights. If truck dies, voltage regulator is bad. In either scenario, alternator will have to be replaced, as the VR is inside the alternator.
|
No, do not do that. Ever. Unless you want to fry expensive parts. I don't know why I have to keep saying this. Nor is this an indication of a VR working properly or not. It tells you absolutely nothing about anything. The VR is attached to the alternator and can be replaced. They cost $45-$55.
If the VR is remarkably cheaper than the alternator, give it a shot. If it fixes the problem, you're golden. If it does not, return the VR and buy the new alternator. Just make sure you can return it first.