Hi all,

Just wondering what might be causing an issue (if it is even an issue) that I noticed the other day. It used to be that when I started the engine on the 1983 300D, almost immediately the charging indicator light would turn off. No I notice after sitting over night, on the first start of the day, the engine is running for 3-5 seconds before the light goes off. It never comes on while driving (even idling at a light) and subsequent starts during the day it will turn right off. It only seems to stay on a bit longer at first start up after sitting overnight.
What do you think…..weak regulator (it was replaced about a year/12,000 miles ago) weak alternator, weak battery, or no issue. I did replace the alternator belts about 1000 miles ago, I should probably check the tension on them…
Thanks,

Glenn

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2012 Mercedes ML350 Bluetec 91K (hers)
2005 Corvette 55K (fun car)
2002 VW Jetta TDI 231K (mine)
1998 Volvo S70 T5 Turbo 196K (kids)
1994 Ford F150 4WD 249K (firewood hauler)
1983 Mercedes 300D 376K (diesel commuter)

Not an issue....go to some other problem...

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1980 240d ,

chain elongation, cam marks reference:
http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/10414-help-i-need-check-stretch.html

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/305365-9-degrees-chain-stretch.html

evap fin cleaning:

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/156207-photo-step-step-post-showing-w123-evaporator-removal-1983-240d-1982-300td.html?highlight=evaporator

A/C thread

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/297462-c-recommendations-mb-vehicles.html

Take the regulator off the back of the alternator and look inside. The brushes ride on two copper slip rings. My only suggestion would be to clean the slip rings, which you can do with contact cleaner or abrasive paper.

Pop the hood before your 1st start of the day and put a volt meter on the battery posts then start the engine. I expect that the glow plugs are pulling measured voltage down. You only have a problem if it doesn't go up to ~ 14V when the glows shut off.

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85SD 240K & stopped counting painted, putting bac together. 84SD 180,000. sold to a neighbor and member here but I forget his handle. The 84 is much improved from when I had it. 85TD beginning to repair to DD status. Lots of stuff to do.