Alternator gave up the ghost at 223k

[DJB]

The voltage regulator and brush assembly is held onto the back of the
alternator with two screws. You might have to pull the airbox to access
it, but otherwise it's trivial to check.

The brush spec is: new 12mm, replace at 5mm
If the voltage regulator is still good, you can save some money by
replacing only the brushes. The regulator is $50-$70, while the brush
kit is as low as $3 aftermarket.

12-31-1-727-756 Alternator brush repair kit, $8.60 list, $7.31 (-%15)
Two brushes, two springs, and two clips.
The new brushes come with a crimp ring that installs on the braided
wire after you thread it through the springs then holder.
Cut the wires holding the original brushes in place.
Set the new brush length at 12mm past the holder and crimp the ring.
Solder the ring and wire to hold it in place (optional but recommended).

Or you can buy a new voltage regulator for only about $30 at places such as autohausaz.com, fap99.com, pelican parts, etc.

Both options are easier than replacing the whole alternator just for worn brushes. As long as your front bearing is still smooth, a "rebuilt" alternator isn't an improvement.

[Jand3rson]

Both options are easier than replacing the whole alternator just for worn brushes. As long as your front bearing is still smooth, a "rebuilt" alternator isn't an improvement.

Unless you get one with a lifetime warranty, like I just did. Then I don't have to spend the time pulling apart the old one, I just drop this one in. And if it should ever go bad, I get a new one.

Sometimes, rebuilding something is the way to go, sometimes just replacing it is easier. I was much happier just buying a new unit in this instance.

[DJB]

Unless you get one with a lifetime warranty, like I just did. Then I don't have to spend the time pulling apart the old one, I just drop this one in. And if it should ever go bad, I get a new one.

Sometimes, rebuilding something is the way to go, sometimes just replacing it is easier. I was much happier just buying a new unit in this instance.

The regulator/brush assembly is held onto the back of the alternator with two screws. It's far easier replacing it than pulling the alternator.

I could see your point with an internal regulator, where you have to disassemble the case, and perhaps even unsolder wires.

A lifetime warranty sounds good, but I doubt that it has much value. The original alternator lasted well over a "lifetime". I've never bought an auto product where the lifetime warranty paid off. There is always some excuse: "not returned in the original packaging", "your address doesn't match, the warranty only applies to the original purchaser", or "if it failed, you must have abused it, therefore the abuse clause applies".