Water Cooled Voltage Regulator

[zoldy]

I have an issue that I have read about here and other places. I am uncertain whether to replace my regulator or covert to an alternator. Everyone of course has a different opinion. My problem is overcharging which I assume is the regulator.. <br /><br />The alternator kits seem good. But will it fit ... do I have to move anything out of the way first. <br /><br />I want to do what is the simplist and that is to replace the regulator. however I am afraid of doing it again and again at $400.00 each time..<br /><br />Any recommendations?

 

[elpaso]

Re: Water Cooled Voltage Regulator

You did not say - but you must have a 3.7L Mercruiser.<br /><br />The alternator kit is easy to install - add a bracket and change a<br />pulley. And will solve a major problem with the 3.7.<br /><br />Only problem you might have is - space between new alternator<br />and stringer ? I did one that I had to cut a small notch in stringer.

 

[zoldy]

Re: Water Cooled Voltage Regulator

Yes that is correct it is a 3.7...<br /><br />where did you get your kit... I have seen them for $100.00 and up to $700.00

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: Water Cooled Voltage Regulator

Do yourself a favor Zoldy,do the conversion because it is easy and cheap.You will have plenty of other times to wish you had a different motor.Charlie

 

[elpaso]

Re: Water Cooled Voltage Regulator

http://ebasicpower.american-data.ne...tore_Code=eBasicPower&Category_Code=MER37ELEC <br /><br />They have anything you need for a 3.7 coversion.<br />I have delt with them many times - no problems.<br />Complete kit is $369. I have never seen a "complete" kit any cheaper.

 

[elpaso]

Re: Water Cooled Voltage Regulator

They also have install instructions and pictures<br />on line - you will need high speed - it is a large<br />file. But its free. <br /> <br />Call them to find out how much space - you need<br />to install - in front of engine and Starboard.

 

[Bt Doctur]

Re: Water Cooled Voltage Regulator

If you go with the kit, when installing the engine bracket use "Blue Loctite" and dont yank the belt up too tight. Make sure the pully is centered on the crank otherwise youll break the bracket from vibration.squeling belts are a sign of a worn belt not always a loose one.

 

[kcole683]

Re: Water Cooled Voltage Regulator

How high of a charge is it putting out?<br />3.7 Liter mercruisers regularly get up to 17.5 volts or so before regulating it down.<br />16 to 18 volts turns on the regulator to reduce the voltage.<br />At 13.5 to 15 volts the regulator turns off and allows charging until the 16 to 18 volt turn on point is reached again.<br /><br />I have a 1985 3.7 Merc and am on the second season on a battery with no issues yet. I regularly see 17 to 18 volts on the voltmeter. As long as you keep the cells wet in the battery it will probably be OK.

 

[highaltitude]

Re: Water Cooled Voltage Regulator

you are a funny guy charlie-but i agree

 

[MrBill]

Re: Water Cooled Voltage Regulator

Zoldy...I did the alternator conversion this Spring and ran the whole season. I only wish I did it five years ago. If you're skeptical, don't be...but get a high quality conversion kit with good gear and brackets, particularly if you have power steering, then you'll have to locate the alternator lower starboard side of the engine. You'll need 4 inches of forward clearance and sufficient side clearance for belt tightening. There are new design regulators that tempted me (they're about $275), but the $375 I spent for the alternator w/conversion kit was the best money I've ever put into this 1989, 3.7L boat...it's the first year of no battery or charging problems in six years. Go for it...

 

[Trent]

Re: Water Cooled Voltage Regulator

Get the kit....You want be sorry. Then replace the camshaft seals when you see water comming out the front of the engine. It will happen!