PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post - Electrical trouble; replace Alternator, Brushes or Voltage Regulator?

dpetryk · #7 01-27-2002, 10:05 PM

I must disagree with Greg. When a connection creates too much resistance, like a corroded wire/connector the current is actually reduced. Lower resistance means more current and higher resistance means lower current. So if a connection creates too much resistance the current will decrease.

Ohms Law states that:

I=E/R which means Amps = Volts / Ohms

So your statement contradicts the laws of physics

Also I disagree with your statement :

"... there is an inverse relationship between the amps and volts it can make ... maxed on one means low on the other...."

A properly working alternator the voltage is regulated to 13.8 volts or something close to this value regardless of RPM - within limits of course. Its current capacity is determined by the size of the magnetic fields and magnetic components, diode capacity, and rotational speed. The current curve for an alternator increases with RPM reaching the max value at about 4000 RPM.

I agree with your statements about soldering connections. Most problems related to electronics are usually related to connections of some sort. And connectors are usually trouble. However soldering the pins in connectors is sometimes impossible without serious damage.

All the connectors I have seen in my MB's have silver plated contacts. A testament to the electrical engineers on the MB team.