I have a 98 Taurus. I'm now on my fourth alternator. My problem was where Ford put the automatic tensioner is where all the dirt and grime from the road kicks up. I had the last alternator rebuilt by a good auto electric guy and have not had a problem in over 5 years. Periodically I put a wrench(15mm) on the nut that attaches to the tensioner (with a cheater bar) and wiggle it back and forth. By the way I talked with and e-mailed Ford 3 times and they insist that there is no problem and they have not gotten any complaints.
Built into the alternator.
Inside the alternator
Located inside the alternator
It is internal, in the alternator
I believe that is in the back of the alternator
The voltage regulator on this car is part of the alternator and is easily removable with 3 screws.
Unless things have changed, the diodes are part of the alternator. The voltage regulator is attached to the alternator but the diodes are part of the alternator.
Most Ford alternators have an integrated regulator... it's inside the alternator.
You will destroy the voltage regulator if you unplug the battery while it is running, then you will have to replace the alternator anyways.
The voltage regulator is locate in one of two places. ***The voltage regulator is located in the alternator if you have an IAR type alternator*** ***The external voltage regulator (for the EVR-type alternators) is located on the driver's side wall, right next to the battery. It's much easier to see and/or remove if you remove the battery first. It has "Motorcraft" in raised lettering across the front*** I just had to remove mine.
you may have a bad battery or a bad voltage regulator
Usually the voltage regulator is the problem. Its located inside the alternator. More testing is needed to make sure that the regulator is the fault. If you want to guess. Replace the alternator. Sounds to me like the power steering and alternator belt has fallen off.