L2000 Overcharging

[14karat]

Hi all,
I posted earlier about looking for a radiator after the battery let go a couple years ago.
Well, I replaced the alternator (new) and the battery (used) after that and just last week, this battery let go. I knew the battery was low voltage (around 11) when I put it on, but it had enough to crank the tractor.
Anyway - figured the low voltage of the battery was causing the overcharging and resulted in the detonation...
So, just put a brand new battery on it. Voltage is good, but checking the alternator output - 17V.
Let it run for a few minutes and checked again... 17V...
Am I in for another $100+ alternator now?
Are there some gut checks for the wiring I need to look at? Anyone willing to share a schematic?
I'm considering just disconnecting the alternator output since there's no load on the battery except for the starter...
Thoughts, suggestions?

 

[MagKarl]

I have the same problem with mine but haven't had time to trace everything out. I bought a regulator hoping I might get lucky but was not the case. Previous owner told me when I bought it that it needed a new battery every couple years. Lots of rust in my battery area, so I suspect it's been boiling batteries for a long time.

 

[14karat]

hmmm... I had the idea the regulator was in the alternator and there it is under the dash... I've had the dash off twice and unplugged the thing and hadn't even thought twice about it...
OK... I'll go ahead and order a new regulator for the thing and see where that gets me...

 

[14karat]

What's the thoughts on running with the negative battery post disconnected? Will that toast the alternator? Was hoping to get the back 3 acres cut today, but don't want to ruin the alternator or blow a brand new battery in the process...
I may have another old alternator around that may fit the slot just to keep the belt tight... Will have to dig around and see...