Wiring Diagram For Ford Alternator With Internal Regulator

Ford vehicles produced before 1981 all feature alternators that require a separate voltage regulator, but with the creation of the 3G series internal regulator alternator, the days of extra wiring are long gone. Wiring a Ford alternator with an internal regulator is not nearly as difficult as you might expect. Knowing exactly what to do and the right pieces to use can make the job a breeze.

When wiring your Ford Alternator with an internal regulator, you have to make sure that all the connections are properly made. First and foremost, you must disconnect the battery's negative cable. This is necessary because if you don’t, it may cause a short circuit and damage the alternator or other electrical components. After disconnecting the negative cable, you can now connect the main wiring harness. The positive cable should be connected to the output stud, while the negative cable should be connected directly to the regulator case.

Once the cables are connected, you can then proceed to install the brushes and bushings into the housing. A slip clutch is necessary to ensure that the alternator doesn’t overcharge the battery and cause damage to the vehicle’s electrical system. You also need to connect the three wires from the alternator to the regulator – one terminal each for the field, stator, and sense. Be sure to secure the terminals with wire connectors to avoid any potential shorts.

The final step in wiring your Ford Alternator with an internal regulator is to attach the fan blade to the drive shaft. Then simply reinstall the alternator and start the engine. As soon as the motor is started, the alternator should start charging the battery and the dashboard lights should turn on. If all of the connections were made correctly, your alternator should be working properly. Taking the time to understand exactly how to wire an alternator with an internal regulator will pay dividends in the long run, as it will ensure that your car runs smoothly and safely.