altenator light

[rivman]

I replaced my alt. on my 83 240d approx. 400 mi ago. I was coming home from a short trip and the alt. light came on @ idle it is very dim accelerate and it gets bright any ideas?


Thanks

[vwnate1]

Better get a voltmeter and do a basic voltage test....

Might be a silly question but : ? did you take the time to clean the battery cables and posts yet ? .

I find most charging system issues include resistance at the battery to cable connection, I always remove the battery from the car and wash it well with soapy water then wash the cable ends in dilute baking soda and water until they stop fizzing .

A simple thing that few grasp the importance of .

If the voltage at the battery doesn't reach at least 12.5 volts with the headlights on when you rev. the engine a little bit look at the connections, sometimes the little wire bail that holds the plug into the back of the alternator gets lost or isn't properly fitted and the plug wiggles loose from vibration .

? Did the replacement alternator come with a pulley ? and if so, where did you buy it ? .

[strelnik]

Originally Posted by vwnate1

Better get a voltmeter and do a basic voltage test....

Might be a silly question but : ? did you take the time to clean the battery cables and posts yet ? .

I find most charging system issues include resistance at the battery to cable connection, I always remove the battery from the car and wash it well with soapy water then wash the cable ends in dilute baking soda and water until they stop fizzing .

A simple thing that few grasp the importance of .

If the voltage at the battery doesn't reach at least 12.5 volts with the headlights on when you rev. the engine a little bit look at the connections, sometimes the little wire bail that holds the plug into the back of the alternator gets lost or isn't properly fitted and the plug wiggles loose from vibration .

? Did the replacement alternator come with a pulley ? and if so, where did you buy it ? .

Check the alternator belt, sometimes they get a little loose and may/may not make noise.

[Mxfrank]

Loose or glazed belt sounds right to me.