update on the 1987 260E. I had to car towed to a local mechanic down the streets. So he checked it out and low and behold, its the freaking alternator. Anyway, he ordered a rebuilt one and I am on the road again. $406+hst so I am out $450+ canadian bucks. Is this the right price for a replacement alternator? I had a chance to spin the pulley on the old alternator and it spins freely, even better than the new one. So you folks are probably right on the voltage regulator. I sure wish I have one around when I need it so bad. Hey have to drive to work so I just went with it. Nothing like desperation to empty your wallet.

By the way, the guy towed my car from the rear, with the rear wheels raised up and the front wheels on the ground. He says its ok because the car is rear wheel drive and the front isn't attached to anything. He drove slowly and not for a long distance.