[jamesHK]

I've had this wagoneer for 5 days. It appears that the voltage regulator is not working, because when the motor is turning slowly, the lights dim and the gauge goes below charge. It's a cheap part, but it's inside the alternator. Is this a do-able repair?
Also, I want to remove the AC compressor. there's no pressure in the lines and I think that I would like to see if the thing can be rebuilt. It looks like an old ford compressor. I have a chiltons '57 - '83 repair manual but it doesn't touch on AC anything. I'd like to know if there's somewhere or someplace I can see about removing and replacing the thing.
james

[J4GRAND]

Don't even bother replacing just the VR; replace the alternator with a new or good rebuilt one. Some of the chain parts stores have shoddy rebuilders and I've known a few to go through 2 or 3 alternators before getting a good one.

As for the a/c; it is a York compressor. Another part you can find at most part stores. You should take it to a repair shop to have it evacuated in case there is any freon left in the system then remove the lines and replace the compressor.

[jamesHK]

I haven't been able to figure out HOW to get it off without taking every thing else of of the engine!

[h2oman]

It wouldn't hurt to reground the motor, & battery to the body, to the firewall, & to the frame. I'm a firm believer in that you can never have to many good grounds on an old truck. It will help it turn over quicker, & could possibly help with your dimming issue. Just be sure to get a good metal to metal connection when hooking things up.