Hi,
The regulator is internal with the alternator. If you look below, I attached the wiring schematic that you may find helpful. Also, as far as the life expectancy of an alternator varies. My wife's Durango now has 125K on it with no power issues. Actually, the original battery from 2013 is still in the vehicle and has made it most recently through below 0 temperatures.
Although the life is variable, I would expect one to last at least 100,000 miles.
Let me know if this helps.
Joe
See pic below. Note: Pics 1 and 2 are from the same page. I cut them in half to make them readable. Pic is the manufacturer's schematic. Pics 4 and 5 are from Rockauto. Com with prices for alternators. You may want to check them out. If you decide to get one, let me know and I'll get you a discount code for an additional 5% off.
Images (Click to make bigger)
Tuesday, January 17th, 2023 AT 6:45 PM