AQ170 Alternator / voltage regulator

[Mudgie]

Hi all,

I have a '73 Orrion ski boat with a AQ170A/270 outdrive, all original parts. Last time I had the boat out, I noticed my voltmeter was jumping up to 18-20 volts and there was an "electrical" smell. I shut everything down and limped back to the ramp on my trolling motor. I looked under the engine cover and didn't see anything obvious like a broken belt, but I did notice a faint black "spray" pattern on the inside of the engine cover, like something that had gotten on the belts and was flung off.

SO, a few questions:

1) Is it my voltage regulator (as I suspect), the alternator, or both?

2) How to test and determine which components failed?

3) Can you even find a voltage regulator for this engine anymore?

4) Big question: Can I replace the alternator/voltage regulator with something generic or aftermarket? Are a lot of modifications required to do this?

I'm pretty technical if not mechanical, and I do most of the maintenance and minor repairs myself. I'm pretty sure with the right parts, I can do this myself but I want to check with as many resources as possible.

Any help appreciated!

- Dave (Mudgie)

 

[HorizonblueDK]

Re: AQ170 Alternator / voltage regulator

As far as I know, there are no replacement parts available anymore for the original alternator, with external regulator.

I'm restoring a 17 footer with an AQ 170, and the original alternator on this one didn't work either. I had an alternator with built in regulator from a Volvo 430 (4.3 V6) laying around and this one fits in the bracket on the engine. I had to replace the pulley, but that's all.

So I suggest that you find an alternator from another Volvo gas engine with v-belt drive. The dimensions on the attaching points have probably been the same for many years.

 

[Mullin]

Re: AQ170 Alternator / voltage regulator

Two years ago I pulled my alternator and had the local auto-electric shop rebuild it for me. Cost $200 and is dead again this year.

After a quick inspection, I realized the alternator is just a 1-wire alternator (plus a ground). So I just ordered up this brand new alternator instead:
Amazon.com: New 100 Amp Delco Universal Marine Alternator 56045, 59755, Fits many Models, Please See Below: Automotive

Just got it yesterday, so haven't installed it yet or tested it yet, but it looks like it will work just fine. There is also a 3-wire option available, I just wanted a quick swap though. Might be worth checking out.

For your situation, yeah sounds like the internal voltage regulator crapped out. I have always heard that anything over 16volts can start to melt wires, so you'll want to take a look around. Thin little wires like those going to the stereo, or from the fuse box to the dash are going to be most at risk.

 

[diesel1960]

Re: AQ170 Alternator / voltage regulator

There is SEV voltage regulator on E-bay $26.
But I would recommended buying alternator with internal regulator,check ebay ,new $80.