I got the alternator wet with water, while changing my thermostat. The car started up fine after I did the thermostat work, but today (2 days after) the battery seemed dead. Could it be because the alternator got wet?

the car is a '69 280S W108

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'77 300D 387,000 Miles . . .

'69 280S (SOLD)

'79 300CD (SOLD)

With the engine running check to see what your alternator output is measured at the battery terminals. Thats the fastest way to answer your question.

Additionally, check to make sure your alternator belt is tight and the pulley(s) are clean.

If coolant got all over your armature of the alternator, you could try spraying an electrical cleaning fluid.

Keep us posted,

Haasman

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'03 E320 Wagon-Sold
'95 E320 Wagon-Went to Ex
'93 190E 2.6-Wrecked
'91 300E-Went to Ex
'65 911 Coupe (#302580)

Let us know the out come on this one -- I do remember the old 108's not liking water.

I believe that the regulator is in a different location -- did that get wet!

I also think that that car only has a 35amp unit -- so a belt that is a little off will really affect that car. The starter draws a lot of amps!

I do not drive my 108 cars very often -- but even when the cars were new the electrical systems were at the limit -- especially at night and in the rain -- in the summer with the AC

I can remember being on the highway driving home in the rain from the Jersey shore late at night and seeing that faint red glow of the alt light!

I tried to turn on the car ('69 280S) again and it started right up. I tried a few hours later, and still now problem. So, the problem is solved in my book. I've checked the battery and it holds 13.8 amps or volts ( whatever). Regardless the problem is gone, maybe it just took a day or two to dry the water that was in/around the alternator.

__________________
'77 300D 387,000 Miles . . .

'69 280S (SOLD)

'79 300CD (SOLD)