The charging systems in any of these newer cars (and that's a relative term) is much more complex. There are several factors that determine alternator output to charge/maintain the battery. Although there is certainly some diagnostic capability with the charging system, failures do occur without ...

I sympathize with the OP here. If cars are a hobby or an occupation, that's one thing. This isn't where everyone is at or wants to be. I've done a lot of things to my car, but I'd draw the line at extensive rust repairs as well.

The Canadian equivalent (Parisienne) from 1982-86 had the 5.0L small block 305 in most cases, a few had a 3.8L 231 cu in. engine but were very uncommon...