Intermittent overcharging

2004 FORD FREESTAR
200,000 MILES • 4.2L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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TOMTHUMBS
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Installed new alternator a few months ago.
Recently it is overcharging at times.

Driving along all dash went out. Then it came back. Later battery, ABS and brake lights came on and I noticed voltage was 18v +- on cigarette lighter volt readout meter.

Then voltage dropped to 14+- and those indicators went out. only to repeat many times on my way home, 60 miles. When I opened the hood to check connections, the top of battery was wet, likely boiling over.
Apr 18, 2022 at 12:59 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 POSTS
Hi,

Overcharging can be damaging to the vehicle. On this vehicle, the voltage regulator is integral in the alternator. The alternator you got should be replaced.

If it is only two months old, it should still be under warranty.

Here is a link that explains how in general to replace one:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-an-alternator

The two pics below are specific to your vehicle.

Let me know if this takes care of the problem. Note: Your battery may have been damaged and should be checked by the store providing the alternator.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
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Apr 18, 2022 at 6:49 PM