Alternator Question

[george mills]

lotsa snippage
>The voltage regulator itself is basically a switch, a single transistor,
>that is "off" above 14.5 volts or so, and fully "on" below 12.5 volts or
>so.  In between these points it exhibits some resistance, delivering
>somewhat less current to the rotor.
lotsa more snippage

Seems reasonable to me. However, I don't understand why an over-charge
woke up the autocheck on my 87 5kq with over 17 volts indicated on the
CC head on channel 11. Turns out I needed a new stator and armature
(rotor), but the regulator was good and diodes were good, did not need
to be replaced. And yes, I know the regulator is the same as I put my
"mark" on it. GM "sign of excellence" :) I had already gone through
ground issues previously. Weird electrical stuff happens on old cars,
and new for that matter.

Best regards,
Geo