Coupla questions:

1. How long are the original alternators good for? I've got 196k--am I pushing the limits? Am planning a major trip--sure hate it when the alternator croaks on the Interstate (I've got a voltmeter, not installed yet. But a voltmeter doesn't fix a dead alternator.) Can anyone tell me which years are interchangeable with the 1992? I might pick up a junkyard unit just in case.

In return, I can offer this tip if your car doesn't have a voltmeter. Tap the horn from time to time when you're driving through the great open spaces. The horn is real voltage sensitive (at least it was on my 1980). If it suddenly sounds weak and slow to come on, think "dead alternator".

2. I would like to convert to synthetic oil. Have seen threads with reports that leaks appear when you do this. Hmmmm. My rear main seal is already seeping a little. Maybe I'll try synthetic blend. Does this need the same change interval as pure dino oil, or can I stretch it out?

Thanks for any help you can provide.

Doug Harvey