Dash voltage regulator..obc dim, gauges low

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ratty
E30 Zone Newbie
E30 Zone Newbie
Posts: 4
Joined: Thu May 12, 2005 11:00 pm
Location: Noobury
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Sat May 14, 2005 12:44 am

Hi everyone.

My 325 cab has very dim obc and the temperature gauge reads a little left of center.

I was told a while ago that it's a common problem due to a voltage regulator which is easily replaced....

Can anyone give me any hints as to where it is and what i'm looking for...or any other useful advice

Many thanks :)
ian332isport
E30 Zone Team Member
E30 Zone Team Member
Posts: 5380
Joined: Wed Dec 22, 2004 11:00 pm
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Sat May 14, 2005 7:55 am

E30's don't have a voltage regulator for the dash (not one you can replace anyway). The temp gauge reading left of centre sounds normal, so I should not worry about that.

When you say the OBC display is 'dim'. Do you mean that it's virtually unreadable and only visible in bright light, or that it's a bit dimmer than normal ?

If it's virtually unreadable, then it's probably the OBC backlights that have blown (common problem). These backlights are mounted in a white plastic housing that slides out from the side of the OBC. It's a bit tricky to gain access if you have never done it though.

You have two options on replacement:

1 - Go to the dealer and swap a crisp Ԛ£20 for a new backlight
2 - Replace the two 5 volt bulbs on the original for a few pence.

Cheers,

Ian.
If it aint broke - Modify it...
ratty
E30 Zone Newbie
E30 Zone Newbie
Posts: 4
Joined: Thu May 12, 2005 11:00 pm
Location: Noobury
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Sat May 14, 2005 11:33 am

Cheers Ian,

Yeah...the obc is virtually unreadable. Also the red light on the hideous Bmw alarm (deadlock thing) on the drivers door is so dim I cant tell if it's armed or not..

I thought it would all be related to a common low voltage or earth problem.

I'll investigate further.

Appreciate your help.

Nice 332i mate... looks a bit special that :)
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