My headlights and interior dome light have flickered for as long as I can remember. I replaced the voltage regulator and alternator along the way to no avail. I’ve done research on the internet and read all kinds of solutions. Today I found THE solution and it was inexpensive. I purchased an AC Delco Voltage Regulator part number F662 and the problem is gone! The part was $32 and Summit Racing wanted $15 for shipping. Oh well. You can probably find one cheaper if you look around. I believe this is a solid state unit versus the original analog ones but I’m seeing a rock solid 14.4 volts on the multi meter with the engine idling and the headlights on. I’m super happy. Just thought I’d share. Some suggested replacing the headlight switch (that made no sense because with the engine off my headlights were rock solid, they only flickered with the engine running). Others suggested adding a relay and running a separate (beefier) power wire to the headlights. Some point to alternators as the issue. I have a ‘65 Ranchero. Originally a base model with the 170 inline six and 3 on the tree. I’ve since pulled those and installed a 289 V8 and TREMEC T5. I’ve done so much. Front disc brakes, V8 coil springs, Bilstein shocks, V8 5 lug rear end, front end V8 steering conversion with 5 lug wheels, Holley Sniper throttle body EFI and it’s associated distributor and coil, rebuilt heater box, heater core, altered drive shaft, rebuilt rear drum brakes, new rear leaf springs, refinished bumpers, custom fuel tank vent, new door seals, new bed trim, rebuilt the tailgate, cruise control, backup lights and on and on. I still drive it all the time and am finally getting ready to do the interior. Just a few minor details I wanted to get sorted first (the flickering lights was one).
Glad you found the issue. I replaced my original mechanical regulator several years ago with solid state, with no issues since. You've done a ton of work on your car; you should post some pics if you haven't already.
Good idea but I want to finish the interior first. That’s the next project. Hardest part will be rebuilding the seat. Some of the springs need to be replaced. Not sure if I’m going to try this myself or hire a professional. I’ve done nearly everything myself so far. I did have the 289 rebuilt by a local shop but I installed it. Of course I had the paint done by a shop too but the rest is on me. It’s been a lot of work but fun.
My seat also had broken springs and worn out upholstery when I bought it. I decided that was a job for a pro, so I had it done. Spendy, but worth it to me.
Looks good! It’s time for me to go see the interior shop and see what he can do. I like your classic look.
Ps. I also added shoulder harnesses. It wasn’t that difficult. With an all metal dash and the infamous ‘spear’ inside the control column I’m glad I did. I bought a universal kit, made a hole in the B pillar where I wanted it to mount (for comfort and effectiveness), bought a small backing plate designed for the harness mount, drilled 3 holes in the pillar and fished the backing plate up into place from below using fishing line. I then added a couple of blind rivets (pop rivets) top and bottom to hold the backing plate in place then I was able to bolt the shoulder harness on. Sounds harder than it was. I highly recommend this as a safety feature.
Meanwhile my seat upholstery vinyl arrived. I ordered it from this guy: https://www.falconcometinteriors.com/ It looks like it should. I’m going to have a local shop do the seat and I will take care of the carpet and door panels (also ordered). Fingers crossed! I’m sure I’ll need some seat springs but won’t know how many until we open it up….
Do your door rods rattle? Mine did. Here’s the solution. $3 at NPD. I just installed it. Has enough for both doors. https://www.npdlink.com/product/doo...169832/233186?search_started_at=1776734119153
