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Dim dash warning lights show whilst driving?
Posted: Wed Nov 11, 2020 2:24 pm
by mash
Windscreen-wiper and electric windows running slow too.
Also dash lights flicker when reving engine
Does this indicate a failing alternator or something else?
Any help appreciated
1990 316i
Re: Dim dash warning lights show whilst driving?
Posted: Wed Nov 11, 2020 4:29 pm
by paultv
Could well be worn brushes on the alternator....remove the regulator pack and check the brushes for wear and pull on them to extend the springs...this at least will increase their life a bit ...clean the comm with fine 600 grade wet and dry...as well as removing any crap on the comm. Reasemble and check if it all works correclty...order a replacement regulator brush pack and fit at your leisure.
Paul
Re: Dim dash warning lights show whilst driving?
Posted: Wed Nov 11, 2020 5:44 pm
by Contours
Worn brushes can cause the alternator to charge intermittently and you would have flickering from the battery light on the dash. You should check the alternator output with a multi-meter to see if its charging the battery. If electrics are operating slowly then a weak battery not charged will hardly have enough beans to start the car.
Re: Dim dash warning lights show whilst driving?
Posted: Thu Nov 12, 2020 7:42 am
by sweep
Check the battery earth in the boot if it’s a 325
Re: Dim dash warning lights show whilst driving?
Posted: Thu Nov 12, 2020 3:10 pm
by mash
Cheers guys, that seems to have solved it.
Cleaned up the blackened contacts and some other corroaded electrics, reassembled and now runs with no dim warning lights, even with all lights/wipers/radio on.
Will get a new one on order