Got new Bosch Voltage Regulator for 190E 2.6
 

From Fastlane. Man, it's not called Fastlane for no reason--they're faaaast! Thanks, Phil.

Okay, info: 1990 190E 2.6 with approximate 107k miles. The odometer broke around there. I have put 200 miles after it broke, so it's 107k. It has a Bosch alternator. Last week car experienced dimming instrument lights, car dies, wait 10 minutes or so and car starts, drive it, dies again...research in the archives tells me this could be a voltage regulator issue.

Questions: Where on the alternator is the VR located? Can I replace it from above engine bay or do I need to remove belly pan and replace from bottom? What tools? I've never done anything on my 190E, so I'd like to know what DIY skill level one needs to be in to tackle this job.

Can someone direct me to a site that shows me the steps for an oil change on a 190E? I think this site has one for a '95 E320.

Also need a site for instrument cluster removal and odomter gear change--is this an easy job? Thanks.

Edit to add: Do I need to unplug the battery when changing the VR?

The voltage regulator is screwed onto the back of the alternator. Remove the two screws, pull out the VR, with integral brushes, and replace it. I can't tell you for sure about above or below so it's up to you.

The voltage regulator is on the back of the alternator and access is from underneath, I'm pretty sure the belly pan has to come off. It's held in with two big philips screws.

Tha hardest part in changing it was probably posting this thread:rolleyes:

I recall doing the VR on my old 190E 2.6 from the top from the passenger side; was too lazy to get under the car and pull the pan.

Either way...its super easy DIY. I didn't disconnect the battery, but probably a good idea.

Oil change is another easy one...buy the MB filter wrench (10-12$ maybe ?), you can remove the filter from the top side of the motor with a long ratchet extension... I bet you can figure out the drain plug. :) I'm sure the 190revolution site guys have a detailed DIY for an oil change...if you really need it.

Instrument cluster removal is also easy, you can make a pull tool out of a clothes hanger that slips in the sides of the cluster, not un-like the w124 cluster removal DIY that may be here. Gear change is easy once you expose the back of the odometer.