Can you replace voltage regulator on alternator?
This is possible because the modern voltage regulator is a sold-state device. When you have tested the charging system of a car fitted with an alternator , and the checks in How to test a car battery point to a fault in the voltage regulator , make sure that you need to replace it.
Are voltage regulators interchangeable?
They all work in the same way though and are pretty interchangeable. Once you get into slightly older bikes, you start to see seperate regulators and rectifiers. If they still have a 3 phase, 12v charging system with magnets, these are interchangeable too, and interchangeable with a modern, ‘one piece’ unit.
Where are voltage regulators used?
Such a device is widely used in motor vehicles of all types to match the output voltage of the generator to the electrical load and to the charging requirements of the battery. Voltage regulators also are used in electronic equipment in which excessive variations in voltage would be detrimental.
What is the difference between a rectifier and a regulator?
Perhaps the biggest thing to note is that a rectifier converts input AC power into DC electrical power. Regulators are, on the other hand, systems configured to automatically maintain a constant voltage level to protect various apparatus against damage that can be caused by fluctuating voltage.
Can you bypass the voltage regulator on an alternator?
On many alternators (except those with computer voltage regulation), you can bypass the voltage regulator to test whether your voltage regulator or some other component (alternator or charging circuit) is at fault.
How much does it cost to replace a voltage regulator?
You’ll likely pay more if going to a dealership and less if the regulator is mounted to the outside of the alternator where it’s easier to get to. Altogether, total voltage regulator replacement cost will be somewhere in the range of $180 to $380 in most cases.
How do you change a remote voltage regulator?
Consult a repair manual for your make and model for more specifics. Position the new regulator over the old for remote regulators, inline with the battery cable and not attached to the alternator and unplug each cable from the old regulator and plug it into the new regulator. There may be up to four cables, depending on the make and model.
How do you adjust the voltage on an alternator?
Some alternators with an old configuration allow adjusting of the voltage regulator. On these units, you can find a small adjusting screw on the voltage regulator. Connect your voltmeter across the battery posts. Set the Parking brake. Shift the transmission to Neutral (manual) or to Park (automatic). Start the engine and let it idle.