couple of easy electrical questions October 10, 2006, 02:46:23 PM first of all i just got an 88 cougar LS 3.8L only 49000mi (for free!!)1st question: is how do i change the light bulb for the top (3rd brake light)2nd question: i have the vinyl top. how do i change the light bulb that is on the side3rd question: i thought the car came with a 1g external regulated alternator, but mine looks like a 2g with internal regulation and the 2 plug set up. i was looking into a 3g swap, cuz of the amps in the car 600watt rms, 1600 watt total, i couldnt find a write up or anything and i was wondering how hard it would be still trying to retain some what of stock setup (with the 2 plugs and wires...etc)thanks in advance Quote Selected
couple of easy electrical questions Reply #1 – October 10, 2006, 03:57:13 PM For your first question: There are two screws, on on each side of the third brake light housing. Remove 'em and pull the whole housing out. The bulbs are replaced from underneath.Second question: Since your vinyl roof is aftermarket the bulb change procedure would be unique to the top manufacturer. Post a close-up pic and we'll see.Third: There is a thread somewhere in this section (or in the greatest hits section) about upgrades for the 3.8 alternator. I'll try to dig it up momentarily. Regardless of the upgrade path you choose, the factory wiring is not sufficient for anything bigger than stock output. You will need to run a heavy-gauge wire from the alternator to the battery to carry the extra current.*EDIT* I found the thread but it was for pre-88 3.8's. I'm not sure, but I think any 94-95 5.0 Mustang-type alternator will work on your car. Just look at your alt - if the mounting tabs are 180-degrees apart (on exact opposite sides of the alt) the 5.0 unit will work. You may have to grind the bracket a bit (like we 5.0 guys do) in order to fit the larger 3G 130-amp housing. You'll still need to modify the wiring tho... Quote Selected
couple of easy electrical questions Reply #2 – October 15, 2006, 08:40:00 AM here is a pic of the light on the vinyl top, sorry its kind of dark... it looks like i could pop it off but the plastic is very sun baked and brittle Quote Selected
couple of easy electrical questions Reply #3 – October 15, 2006, 12:02:15 PM If my memory serves me coreect the 88 3.8 has the alt that the mounting tabs are offset. they are almost at 90* If I remeber right you should get the 3g off a 93-94 tempo/topaz. Not sure 100% but I know you can find it just look at 93-up cars and turcks untill you find one with the same mounting points. Also make sure you get the 130amp model. I believe that the 2g is a 70-85 amp on that 88 3.8 Quote Selected
couple of easy electrical questions Reply #4 – October 16, 2006, 08:41:42 AM my alternator has the 180* offsets. does anybody know the idle output or a chart of it for the 3g 130 amp model Quote Selected
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