These two pics say it all: my alternator was kinda dead, and now awaits a new voltage regulator lest I put up with dimming lights and dead battery. I think the brushes were OEM, how long have you peoples here had Bosch voltage regulators/ alternators last? If these components are OEM, they lasted 310,000 miles, not to shabby! What other alternator components should be checked while the alternator is on the bench?

The commutator on the armature is fairly worn to, at least 1/16''-1-8'' reduction in diameter just looking at it. Should I turn the commutator down with the lathe and an indicated 4-jaw chuck and live center to an even surface? Or just throw the new voltage regulator in and run it? Or buy a new alternator?

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Got cars and bike:
1984 300D, 310K
2000 kawi ex500
1998 grand marquis, 125K