Altenator problems!

[whiteman]

The other night I was out wheeling in the snow and i was trying a climb up a bank when I heard this loud bang. I am almost certain that it was a rock, but at the same instant I heard this bang, my battery light came on as well as my parking brake light.  It does not hold a charge any longer so I need a new altenator or regulator.  But I cant figure out why my parking light came on.   What are some good ideas for a new altenator, do I have to use toyota specific?     I know that my regulator is located in the altenator itself but could I  buy a chevy regulator and altenator with a one wire conection that puts out more power, rather than going back to toy stock?   Thanks for the advice

[stomper]

Mine did the same thing the other week. I Pirced a new alt for $79 Then looking through the hanyes manual I saw the brushed could be changed. I took the brushes out and sure enought one was worn all the way down. I got the new brushes from Advance auto parts they had them in stock $10 is all they cost. There real easy to change. I pulled the alt I didnt drain the rad. I removed the bolt holding the metal tube for the lower rad hose and could get it out with some wiggling and pulling. I then pulled the regulator cover off the back of the alt. Next right in the center the re is a bolck with 2 screws holding it in. This is the brushes it has a rubber cover theat will come off with it. I heated th esolder on the old brushes till I could pull them out and soldered the new ones back in and put it all back together. Lights went out and it charges.

Mine didnt go boom but I drove it to the store and it was fine came out and it was bad. Go figure. Save the cash and check the brushes either way your going to pull the alt. 

[Duffil]

charge and brake always come on together...

[86 4runner]

if you do get a new toyota altenator make sure you get it from toyota, all the other ones are

[Huhwhye]

if you do get a new toyota altenator make sure you get it from toyota, all the other ones are

I 2nd that, but a Toyota alternator cost $350 at the dealers near me.

[86 4runner]

refurbished ones from toyota work just fine and they are about$170

[whiteman]

Thanks guy's I'll pull my alt. tonight and see what the brushes look like.   

[whiteman]

Gal Blasted!!!  It still dont work   wht the crap man.  Can I just convert it to a chevy 140amp alt.