Date: Tue, 13 Jul 2004 09:47:56 +0100 From: Grunff <grunffnospam.com> Subject: Re: C900 alternator probs...
GG wrote: > Set off in my 900i (1990) the other day and noticed the battery light was > glowing dimly when idling, after a while the light became brighter but again > only while idling or at low revs, after a while driving the problem went > away only to return about half an hour later. When I stopped I found the > battery to be completely discharged. > > I've had the AA out to take a look, he found the alternator to be charging > but intermitantly so he cleaned all the contacts in particular the earth and > that seemed to do the job, it was even charging better than ever, but 10 > minutes down the road with the AA guy gone and the light came back on... I > managed to get back home but now the light is brighter than ever - it will > fade and even dissappear but it needs about 3000rpm to do so. > > Does this mean the alternator is completely knackered or should I try and > dismantle it? I saw there is a section on checking the brushes in the Haynes > manual. > > If I do need a new one would a scrap yard job do or am I just setting myself > up for more probs? The cars done 130k so I guess its time for a new one... Most likely brushes. Brush pack readily available. -- Grunff