How easy or hard is to replace the VR on our alternator?
I have done a few VR on other cars. Some don't even need to remove the alternator. Haven't looked into yet but just wonder if anyone here has done it before and care to share some info. Thank you.

 

When I had the problem with the alternator, I just swapped the whole unit out. Didn't want to take a chance.

 

I have success replaced just the VR in the past, not sure about Ford but other cars the first thing when an alternator goes is the VR, and it's only take half an hour to replace and the cost is around 30 bucks.

I just hate to spend $250 instead of $30.

 

I just did some quick searches, and ours is internally regulated. Meaning it is one of those throw away alternators.

From the looks of it, the current pricing on a rebuilt alternator is between $75 -- $100.

Yes, I am very familiar with VR's, but lately with replacement parts being cheaply made, I'd rather not chance it. Depends on the part, if it looks well built and serviceable, then why not rebuild it. Just my feelings/perspective on it.

 

I thought that it's regulated by the PCM?

 

That price is probably aftermarkets, aftermarket's alternator can be big headache sometime. If I'm going to replace the alternator I will probably buy Motocraft.

Last I checked was VR.

 

Actually glc is correct, it is controlled by the PCM. When there is a fault, the charging system light will illuminate (battery indicator on cluster).

 

I agree to a certain extend that the PCM may handle the logics and reporting the condition or status of the charging system however the VR is the one that regulates the the output voltage of an alternator.