Re: Echlin VR-57 Voltage Regulator - apparently no longer available

Posted by Fish'n Jim On 2013/9/11 14:10:47

Before we jump off the worry cliff.
The Echlin chart posted shows Echlin dimmer switch DS-102 for 23 series. The 22 series (same year) shows DS-101. NAPA crosses the DS-102 with DS-133. DS-133 came in today and is "completely" wrong - a modern style column switch connector.
We ran the computer and came up with DS-101 as still a stock item. When I check the fit online, it shows as being correct. Picture looks right or close enuff to make fit. This one just might be a gliche/typo in the numbers. DS-101 be in tomorrow but I may not get til Fri. Keep U posted.
So far all the other parts are in stock and correct or newer versions. New voltage regulators are available from other manufacturers, just won't be factory "correct" per se. I do not know about the Autolite parts equipped cars, mine's a Delco version. They could be fine or worse, maybe someone can comment on that?

ps: As for commentary; I'll bet there's a bunch of parts available in Cuba, either reman or new, but we haven't traded since the 60's for stupid political reasons. These cars were shipped all over, and we're the former manufacturing country not the last. So there's always what you want at a price. I don't see any issues with electrical components because they can usually be rebuilt ad infinitum. It's just the inconvience of not sourcing locally or OEM/NOS.