One other thought I had on the alternators that I can't seem to get a good one. I put a Mallory breakerless distributor in (the HEI I got would not clear the firewall) and one note I had from the phone tech I talked to when I ordered it was that I needed to disconnect the wire from the "R" side of the starter solinoid. I do not remember why he told me to do that or if that could be part of my problem, but I wanted to get feedback on that.
I get my alternators from Advance Autoparts and they do the lifetime replacement, but not having a car while they order a new one in and I switch it out is not fun.
Any help is appreaciated.
Thanks

That wire that the tech told you to disconnect was for the points distributer and you don't need it bouncing around, so yes just eliminate it.

Is it an external or internal voltage regulator. If external it will be located on the radiator support. This could be a problem.

If your killing alts maybe its because your external regulator is bad. Or your using a external regulator with a internally regulated alternator. Just taking shots in the dark. Wheres the original post?

My original post was titled "4th bad aternator - what am I missing? posted four - five days ago I think.
So, I blew out the original voltage regulator (it is external) with the first alt. Bought a new one and ech time they tested the alt they said the VR was good. On the 4th & 5th alt change, they gave me another new VR to be sure. The Alt is not the type with the internal regulator. The alternators all range from putting out 7 volts to 14.7volts and about 15 - 30 amps which it should be 61 I think. With this range, I am thinking they just sell crappy alternators, but after 5 I am looking every where I can think of.

I bought a rebuilt alt. once(and only once) and it wasn't right either. I found a local rebuider who showed me the dry bearing, used, old brushes and bad internal components. He said it is common practice for companies to put in marginal components. I now have him do rebuilds for me using origional used cores. He does all the alternators for the largest highway const. co. in the state. You'd be better off rebuilding it yourself as well.
Did you get a Well VR 715 voltage regulator as an upgrade to stock?

Probably a good idea, my dad showed me how to rebuild back in the day. I looked for a new alternator from a local store, even Napa and Car Quest said they can't get new any more. I was going to order a new one, but I guess I am worried that there is something I am missing with the car and I will spend the $$$ just to have another one go bad. Electronics is my weakest area. I did not upgrade the VR, didn't know there was an upgrade. I asked how many different alt & VR options there were and was told only one by the local parts strore. I will go on line to see who sells Well VR. Any suggestion as far as a good alternator brand & number? I guess I will have to take the step to see if a good one cures the problem. I live in CO and am running out of days this year to drive.
Thanks

By the way, who sells the Wells 715 VR? I looked for it on several sites and could not find it.
Thanks

NAPA carries Wells VR715.