Date: Fri, 1 Nov 2002 13:53:42 -0500 From: "g c" <nbtrownopsamet.on.ca> Subject: Re: Alternator problems '92 900
Thanks everyone for your advice and wishes! Finally got the regulator out, and one brush >was< worn down, quite shorter than the other, and sooty black rather than polished graphite - so I figured that's the problem. A local supply house had a suitaable no-name regulator in stock (surprise, surprise! - I'm just about in the backwoods as far as a Saab goes) and the exchange went fairly smoothly - 'cept now the battery warning light doesn't come on when the ignition switch is on! Ground wire in good shape and on tightly (resistance alternator to engine block about 0 ohms) and other 2 wires (heavy gauge positive and one very light gauge) on tightly too. So apart again, re and re the regulator, and check that I didn't damage one of the brushes.... if I did, I guess I've got a working pair between the old one and the new... The other thing to check for I was told, is to make sure there is good contact between the regulator and the alternator body (rough up surface with sandpaper), as this is essential - otherwise no ground, idiot light won't come on, and alternator doesn't charge (fits the present symptoms!) Removing the alternator seems a >real< pain! The 17mm bolt/nut combination that is the pivot for the alternator doesn't want to unloosen at all, and wouldn't you know it, the bushing should be replaced also.... Too bad I want to keep the car until something much better (that I can afford) comes along! I'll let y'all know how I make out.....