Bad voltage regulator, now more involved issues

[josh86k10]

So last night on my way home my voltage regulator in my alternator apparently went out because as I was driving I noticed "Wow, my windshield wipers and power windows are fast tonight!" Taking a second to realize what was going on, I checked the gauge and sure enough 18+ volts (gauge burried to the right) . I parked it as quickly as I could (I was less than a mile from home) and shut it off. So replacing an alternator... no big deal.

Now the potentially bigger issues:
Since I shut it off, the key no longer does anything, no turning over, no clicks, no radio or blinkers in the on or acc position, nothing . Lights and things that are not tied to the ignition switch still appear to be okay (except for a blown bulb or two). The ignition fuse is not blown . Did the 18+ volts fry my ignition switch? If so is it easy to replace? What else did it likely damage? Thoughts?

It sure sucks having an immobile truck sitting in the driveway in everybody's way. Help .

 

[frankin5]

fusable link is gone.

 

[ryoken]

what he said....

 

[josh86k10]

Would I sound like a complete idiot if I have to ask where the fusable link is and if this is a parts store part? I've heard the term before, but have never fooled with one. Sorry, apparently I still have a bit of newb left in me.

 

[4X4HIGH]

The fuseable link goes from the large starter lug and goes to the junction block on the firewall. The fuseable portion is very close to the starter lug though, feel the wire and you should feel a large lump in the wire, that's it. Cut and splice a new fuseable link in there and you're done. Just to make sure this is your problem check for voltage to the junction block before doing anything else (no voltage=bad fuseable link).

 

[josh86k10]

Thanks guys, this may not turn out to be such a big deal after all. I'll keep my fingers crossed.

 

[dyeager535]

And you can rebuild your alternator for about $15, if you are so inclined. It's one of the easiest things to do on the trucks IMO. I actually enjoy taking them apart now, they are always the same.

 

[josh86k10]

It was a fusible link. I found the 2 down by the starter, but they both tested good by reading continuity. Also, I had power at the junction block. Luckily just as i started to get worried, I spotted another link hanging just past the junction block before the fuse panel. It turned out to be the culprit (and it was even easier to get to with the crimping pliers). The alternator was under warranty, the roll of fusible link was $4, and I had to buy about $15 worth of bulbs and a blinker flasher. All in all, not too bad. Thanks guys, y'all saved me a lot of head scratching .