First off, replacing the alternator voltage regulator was easy. Getting to the alternator wasn't too bad either. I found the brushes on the regulator to be worn down probably an 1/8" from the new unit. The "C" shaped contact that sticks out the side was also excessively corroded. I also found a few other little odd things too. The black hard plastic vacuum line that runs from the grey vacuum valve on the right side of the Y-pipe that runs to one of the diverter valve hoses was loose at both ends. I put a zip tie to provide alittle extra seal. I also found the short 90 degree hose that goes from the grey vacuum valve to the right side of the Y-pipe was also extremely loose and was obviously a leak. I secured those as well. I also found the throttle body to be extremely dirty. Here is a video to show the voltage regulator.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wde4rN4KkMU

 

Did replacing the regulator fix the problem?

thanks

john

 

Fixing the regulator fixed the voltage issue. The car has been idling normal during warm starts, but I am thinking that was cause by either the vacuum line leak or the dirty throttle body. Maybe even both.

 

What mileage were you at, or how many hours operation did you have when you removed the regulator?

I've just taken mine off now and the brushes are worn around 2mm

 

That's very good info! Thanks for sharing!

 

thats why I harp on boost leaks.. we all have them... and you probably prevented your car from possibly overboosting .. that was the n75 valve that controls the Wgs...
the plastic line is a vent line so no harm there.. bit always good to zip tie..
markski

 

Nice. How long did it take you to replace it?

 

Took me about half an hour to get the alternator out and onto the work bench

All in I'd say give yourself a couple of hours at a relaxed pace

 

No bad at all, since dealership can charge up to a grand for a job like this.

 

Does the alternator need to come out in order to replace the voltage regulator?

 

Definitively!

Also good info here: http://forums.pelicanparts.com/porsc...placement.html