If you conclude that you need to replace the stator, and the reg/rec seems to still be working, do you suggest putting in a new reg/rec anyway to avoid any kind of negative effect it might have on the new stator, or would it be inconsequential? The real question here being;
If there is a weak link in your electrical system (battery,reg/rect, or stator/alternator) if one part fries, how are the others effected?
I mean if
battery is dead -- can it effect the other two negatively?
reg/rec is fried -- ( i think it can fry the battery, not sure if it can damage the stator)
stator is dead -- can that cause damage to the reg/rec, or does it simply not provide adequate power?

I ask so that I can avoid an unecessary domino-effect that might come from a fault in the charging system.
Thanks all.