Alternator over charging...

[petesmith]

Hi Guys,

Yesterday, once reaching about 50km/h, my speedo would drop to 0 and everything would stop working, car would run fine though, and the battery light came on when the cluster was working fine below 50km/h.
Took it to get the battery checked and came back with a "diode fault" and the alternator overcharging.

What's the best way to get this fixed, a reco or brand new alternator replacement or take it to an auto elec? I have seen reco bosch alternators for about $130, I would imagine they are really simple to fit. Is it safe to drive the car in the mean time or should I not risk it? Battery acid had spilled out all over the top of the battery too.

I have attached the battery test report to see if my diagnosis is correct

Thanks heaps for any help & Happy New Year

[showbags]

I'd be trying a new regulator first. That's usually the it will over charge.

[Cashman_309]

Man so many voltage regulator/brush problems lately.

Yer just get your hands on a voltage regulator. $30ish off eBay for a genuine Bosch part.

RE72 is the one your after

[pablo]

If there is a diode fault, changing the regulator side of the alternator isn't going to fix it!
The diodes convert the AC (alternating current) produced by the alternator to DC.(direct current). Everything in the vehicle runs on DC. If you are handy with the soldering iron, you can open up the alternator and replace the diodes, but it will be a better option for you to get a change over unit.
And, I wouldn't be driving around with a dodgy charging system, due to not knowing what damage could be done to the vehicles electronics.

[petesmith]

Got hold of a reco today, swapped it out and now all good! Lucky I didn't just get the regulator then!!
Hopefully no damage to car's electronics anywhere....not sure how I would be able to tell though!