Why is my alternator not working on my Mercedes?

Why is my alternator not working on my Mercedes?

And the engine won’t start the next time you try. As these old Mercedes approach 20+ years the brushes are wearing out and the alternators are failing. Many owners are having their expensive alternators replaced without knowing that it might just be the inexpensive voltage regulator mounted on the back on the alternator.

Where can I find a Benz voltage regulator?

This small regulator is easy to install by jacking up your Benz and going underneath to the back of the alternator. I especially like the quality German Monark brand regulator because it has extra long brushes. If you have not replaced this unit in the last 5 years I would highly recommend you do…….

Why does my alternator not charge on tickover?

On checking the battery voltage was low – 11.8V engine running. Battery was replaced about 1 month ago.After much investigation discovered that the alternator does not ‘kick in’ until I rev the engine to approx. 3000rpm – it then charges away happly for the rest of the journey (at around 14.5V) even on tickover. Has anyone seen this problem before?

When did the voltage regulator in my car go out?

The only time in my life when I have been stranded on the freeway with a dead car was when the voltage regulator went out in my 1986 230E. The brushes wore down to a point where they were making enough contact to not have the dash warning light come on, but not good enough to keep the battery charged.

On checking the battery voltage was low – 11.8V engine running. Battery was replaced about 1 month ago.After much investigation discovered that the alternator does not ‘kick in’ until I rev the engine to approx. 3000rpm – it then charges away happly for the rest of the journey (at around 14.5V) even on tickover. Has anyone seen this problem before?

Where is the charge air pipe on a Mercedes Benz?

I note that the crank case vent pipe is connected into the charge air pipe and this was the source of the oil mist which was building up and dripping down from the bottom of the charge air pipe. I cleaned up as best I could and replaced the broken jubilee clip.

Is it cheaper to check alternator or regulator?

Ultimately that’s cheaper than having them check parts of it (as outlined above) because they would charge you for that time as well. Since it changes with engine RPM, that pretty much changes the focus to the alternator/regulator, which is a good thing.

What should I do if my alternator is not working?

If that’s all good then replace the regulator. If not then buy a rebuilt alternator and install it (the rebuilt will come with a regulator). If you’re not very well DIY inclined you could just buy the rebuilt alternator and do the R&R, that’s pretty simple (just be sure to disconnect the battery first!).