1979 chevy nova inline 6 4.1l 179,000 automatic
gen light is on I wonder if the alternator is bad or the voltage regulator I haven't had time to check it since the vehicle is far from my house but the light is flickering so I'm thinking voltage regulator.
The regulator is internal on those Delco alternators and is replaceable. However if the alternator is decades old probably best to either replace it or have it rebuilt at an auto electrical shop. The latter can be a better choice if you have a shop like that around. The quality of parts-store rebuilds is spotty to say the least. Those alternators are available brand new as well. They were used in millions of GM vehicles and others over a long period of time.
My Dad had a 67 Rambler Rebel Station Wagon. I have a lot of fond memories. {pear}:smile:
i had a 88 comanche. kept it 20 years without a problem
{pear}:smile:
I have a '67 Rambler Rebel but it's not a wagon. I do have a '71 Ambassador wagon though which is essentially the same as a Rebel wagon, just has a stretched wheelbase and a different front clip and they came with more standard equipment. Comanche of course is the pickup version of the Cherokee. Those had AMC engines as well. (I have a '99).
To be a little bit on topic, AMC used Delco alternators starting in the mid-1970s and used them until the end. It's the same alternator found on the OP's '79 Nova.
{pear}:nerd:
I would be thinking voltage regulator also, because of the flickering light. It's easy enough to just replace and find out. It looks like they are widely available for around $25. If yours is original and still working, it's living on borrowed time anyway. Good luck.
