Finally got my 318 running this morning. I checked the voltage at the battery (at idle) and it read over 15 volts. I assume the voltage regulator is going bad. On this engine, is the regulator internal to the alternator or externally regulated? If it's internal do I need a new alternator or can it be fixed? My '65 chevy was externally regulated.
Ron

 

Ron -

The regulator should be a blue box on the fire wall, unless somebody reconfigured the system.

Not sure if over 15V is a problem, normal range is up to 14 and change.

BTW -
A friend of mine has the exact same car, Last year he swapped out the 318 for a 383.
Both setups were actually pretty cool and the 318 is a workhorse.

Archer

 

I've replaced the VR, added a long ground wire and touched every spot on the car checking ground, and nothing works. It starts at 14 and within a minute the voltage at the battery reads 17v! Any suggestions before I burn something up?

 

Pull the alt. and have it tested, look over all the wires for repairs or problems.

 

Took the car to O'Reillys. They tested the battery and alternator and both were good. However the voltage regulator or tested bad. I am on my third one. Thinking it must be a ground wire. Can someone tell me where the ground wires are supposed to be on a B body 1970 Mopar?

 

Ron -
Are you sure you're getting the right VR? IIRC there were two types, with slightly different specs. Check with one of the MOPAR distributors to see if you have the right one.

BTW - you did check it with a different voltmeter to confirm, right? Just a thought.

Archer.

 

Hey archer. The voltage (16-17) is same at the batt and alt. I did notice one of the wires was off the back of the alt. Looks like both small wires go from the alt to the vr per my wiring diagram. Does it matter which wire goes to the center terminal on the alt? One is green and the other I can't tell.

 

Correction. The dark blue goes to the ignition ballast.
Ron

 

Dont matter witch field post..

 

How much are you paying for the Voltage regulator

 

$32