Guys,

I was driving to olive garden last night and I notice that my instrument panel lights were a bit dim. So I turn it up but it really didn't do much.
After I finished eating dinner, I started my car and I noticed that the instrument panel lights were dimmer and noticed that my headlights were dim also. So I drove off. I drove for about 100 ft and notice that my headlights were so dim that they practically off. Then my car died and the ABS warning light turns on. I tried to restart but all I hear was a rapid ticking sound coming from the glove box. When I turn the key, I notice that the rpm jumps back and forth from 0-10rpm.

I got jumped by a tow truck. I started fine. But didn't reach far as my car died again.

Could the problem be my alternator? If so how do I check for a bad/good alternator?

How long will a brand new battery last if the alternator is bad?

Or could it be something else?

thanks,
Joseph

Your alternator is dead, get it to a auto electrician and he can revive it for a modest sum...

Mike.

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1990 Euro 190e 2.0l Petrol Now Sold Maybe a w116 280se next

I replaced mine with a 143 AMP alt from a SL500. It really helped with my Euro headlights and non-stock stereo.

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1998 C43 ///AMG
1999 C230 Custom 5-Speed Manual

Mine went out 2 years ago and I had it rebuilt by a alternator/starter rebuilt shop which was a lot cheaper than buying a new unit. Still running strong to date.

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benzino

Not very long, depends on how much you drive too since the battery would have to supply all of power to all of the electric accessories.

Would it be possible that it may be the voltage regulator?

Mine did that. The voltage regulator assembly includes the brushes. Buy the aftermarket one from here (Fastlane). The hardest part about changing it is finding a screwdriver :p

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5 speed '91 190E 2.6 320,000 mi. (new car, fast, smooth as silk six, couldn't find any more Peugeots)
5 speed '85 Peugeot 505 2.5l Turbo Diesel 266,000 mi. (old car, fast for a diesel, had 2 others)
5 speed '01 Jetta V6 (new wifes car, pretty quick)
5 speed '85 Peugeot 505 2.2l Turbo Gas 197,000 mi. (wifes car, faster, sadly gone just short of 200k )
5 speed '83 Yamaha 750 Maxim 14,000 mi. (fastest)
0 speed 4' x 8' 1800 lb Harbor Freight utility trailer (only as fast as what's pulling it)

Okay guys. FYI: it was my voltage regulator. Cost me $30! Better than $150 for an alternator.

Thanks guys.

Also thanks to Jay who gave extra time in helping me out!

Joseph