Nissan Repair: Nissan Altenator replaced 4 times, nissan 4x4, pep boys

Question
I originally replaced the altenator on my 1992 Nissan 4x4 a year ago. Since that initial replacement I have since put 3 more altenators in there. I switched from Advance Auto to NAPA at the request of a friend that is more mechanically incined than myself, but that one seems to be out now. Is there something in my truck eating up and spitting out altenators or am I just getting bad luck with rebuilt ones? Thanks, John

Answer
John,

I would go to Pep Boys and use theirs.  But, that is because I have had good luck with them lasting.  Is there something like a high power stereo or an aftermarket assessory that is killing the alternator.  If this is the case you could go with a high output altenator.  If your truck is stock I would perform a load test after you get the new alternator on.  That is, if the truck is pulling 14.2 volts when running that means that the alternator is commanding full output all the time.  This would indicate that you have one heck of a load pulling the system down.  So, go to Autozone or Checker and have them check the system for free.  That is, they will do the load test for you.  You need not mention where you got the alternator from...  Email me back with what you find.