Charging system problems

Hi... I'm hoping that someone out there can help me. I have an 84 190D with some kind of charging system problem. I was told that it could be the connection,the alternator, or the voltage regulator. The battery connection looked bad, so I replaced the terminals, but the problem was still there. The battery was tested, and it was good, but while the car was running, it was at 16 volts, and I was told that it should be at 12. The car was driven for four hours straight this morning, and everything was fine until it was turned off and needed to be started again, and there wasn't enough power in the battery. I would like to fix this problem myself, but with my limited knowledge, I'm relying on outside help to give me some advice. Could it be the voltage regulator? Also, a couple weeks ago all my blinkers died at once, as well as the guage showing the RPMS. The fuses are fine. Could that have something to do with the whole charging system problem? If anyone has any advice, I would be greatful. Thank you

[J.HIDALGO]

The voltage regulator is less than $30. The alternator a LOT more. There are some auto part stores that will test your battery and your alternator for free. However, you have to take it to them. Howerver, I'd seen this subject before in this forum. Do a search on the subject.

[ctaylor738]

I had a similar problem in my 280E. The battery had been getting too much voltage, and it was fried. The lights would brighten and dim sort of randomly. I ended up replacing the alternator with a rebuild and getting a new battery.

Chuck

[jeffsr]

You have probably chronically overcharged your battery with a minimal load voltage of 16 volts. You should replace the brush/regulator assembly and get a new battery. Your charging system is not regulated.

Is the regulator inside of the alternator?

[jeffsr]

It's part of the brush holder. Easy to remove and replace. Unsnap the retainer clip, remove the two screws, tip the assembly out and replace with new part. Fairly easy DYI project. Whoops, don't forget to unplug the electrical connector. Be gentle, they get brittle with age.

Thanks for replying... I did a search and it seems that everyone agrees that changing the brushes is easy, but I think that I need a little more help, and I couldn't find any in my search. I just looked at the alternator, but I can't figure out where the brushes would be. Do I need to remove the alternator, or will the brushes and v.r. come out separately?

[jeffsr]

Follow the electrical leads to the back of the alternator case. Unplug the connector, remove the two screws and tip it out of the back of the case.