I was able to get the alternator out of the engine compartment from the top. I just had to move two radiator hoses by unclipping them.

Just had the alternator bench tested and it showed charging at 10 volts. He told me it should be around 14 volts.

He'll have a look at the volt regulator and brushes.

He said he'll rebuild it for $225 CAD. I said ok. I guess that's the going rate?

So, I'll get it back and re-install it this weekend with a new battery. I'll be into it for around $400 for a thousand dollar job....it'll be about 6 hours of my time (not really worth it), but extremely satisfying to have done it myself (with some great advice), and learned a little on the way!

My next post will be a summary of what I learned for the next DIYer....

Brad.

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Dr. Brad

2003 C320 4Matic Station Wagon
2002 C240 Elegance
1982 380 SEL Star Certified