Kotobuki

I'm sure plenty of folks here know that there's issues with the Ford factory alternators and blowing the diodes out of em. I've had mine (bought used) for about 30K miles, and this is the second set of diodes I've managed to kill in it. The first time they went out, I took it in to an alternator shop and had them replace em. Quick, cheap, and easy.

I had hoped it was an issue with the factory diodes and that it would solve the problem. Seems not, as they lasted about 15k. So, I'm thinking it's something about the design of the alternator. Insufficient voltage regulation, or something... I'm not an engineer so I'm just guessing. Ford also knows there's a problem with these units, as evidenced by the TSB relating to them, but that just says to replace the faulty alternator with a new unit.

I'm curious to know if anyone know what changes have been made with the newer alternators to alleviate this problem. Or what it was the causes the problems in the first place. Ideally, I'd like to be able to take the alternator to the shop and have the rebuild it, and potentially fix whatever design defect is in it that's causing the issues as well. I'd just hate to go through all the waste (money and resource wise) of getting an entirely new alternator if there's something I can do to save the one I've got.

ybnormal

I hear you, It would be nice I smoke my diode pack and bought a replacement set for about 45 bucks and did it myself. I think my stereo and amps were hungry though.

Be nice to have the upgraded Alt. but pricey until you need one.