M30 Charging problem

Post Mon Sep 25, 2006 11:43 am

Any suggestions where to look for a charging problem on my M30b35 engine (in an E24 but E30zone is by far the most useful BM forum and I do have an E30, honest)?

Basically: I was driving home, abs warning came on, dash lights seemed dim, electric window was slow then it was misfiring at full throttle then at light throttle then it died on it's arse with a flat (nearly new) battery.

Odd thing is there was no alternator warning light and the fan belt is still on and tight. Does this sound like a simple alternator failure and failed warning light?

jk

Post Mon Sep 25, 2006 5:32 pm

Get the engine started and see if it charging. If its not check the earth strap on the engine and the wiring in the back of the alternator if that is all ok then I think it will be the alternator.

Post Mon Sep 25, 2006 5:37 pm

I've also known very new batteries to fail (I've worked in car parts business for about 10 years and seen it happen several times)!

I'd guess alternator too though.

Post Mon Sep 25, 2006 7:47 pm

Some earlier altenators will not work with a blown warning light.

Post Mon Sep 25, 2006 9:38 pm

Renew the alternator brushes ,two screws on the back of the alternator will release them, I'd put money on one of them being worn down to f**ck all

HTH
john