I was going to drive my 72 cutlass to work this morning and when I started her up, the alternator light was on. I just replaced it last summer. It's possible it has gone bad again but doubt it. I am going to check the connection when I get home today. If those check out, I will pull it and have it checked. Any other things I should look at before going through all this? Thanks

 

Check all connections at the batt, alt, and reg, belt tightness - the basics.
Using a voltmeter, take measurements at the battery with car stopped and then when running. When running it should be btwn 13 and 16V. If less, then the alt may have quit. Take it back to the store you got it and have them test it. Some of those remans are rebuilt poorly.

 

I checked all the connections. All appeared to be tight. So, I took off alternator off and had it checked. It checked out ok. I reinstalled it and the light is still on. Suggestions?

 

Internally or externally regulated?

What is the voltage running and not running?

- Eric

 

If your system has not been replaced with the "exciter set up" of an integral regulated alternator (originally -- 1973 & up), the 1972 is still
an EXTERNAL Voltage regulator system -- and the Voltage Regulators
fail frequently.........

I have them in stock four ways -- new solid state (they suck!) - $ 25,
N.O.S. USA - Made -- private label ---------------------------------- $ 39,
N.O.S. Standard (Best after market brand on planet) ------------- $ 49,
and ++ NEW ++ DELCO REMY -- ORIGINALS ---------------------- $ 85,

plus actual U P S Shipping from New York............

Best to call me ----- Craig -- 516 - 485 - 1935............

 

Well, I finally got around to replacing to voltage regulator. I also found the ground strap from the fire wall to the block was broken as well. I replaced that too. No Alternator light on. And all the radio issues of cutting in and out are gone! Thanks for the help guys.

 

Looks like two big problems fixed at once. I love tales of success!