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Old 08-06-2009, 04:39 PM   #1
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Electrical Problems

I am having electrical issues and need some input please.

Symptoms
Car will not start after the car sits for 2 or more hours with out a jump.

So far I have know the following.
The battery tests OK.
The voltage regulator was replaced.

Durametrics shows the voltage to be in the mid to high 13s with multiple systems on or off.

Questions
What should the voltage run on the durametrics tester?
Suggested fixes or things to investigate?

Thanks for your help!

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Old 08-06-2009, 09:25 PM   #2
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When you say the battery tests OK, what does that mean? Are you simply measuring the voltage values of the battery on a DMM or are you actually load testing the battery? If the battery is 5 yrs. old (or of undetermined age), it's time to start thinking about a replacement.

It could also be an issue with the starter (ignition) switch which are notorious on these cars.

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Old 08-06-2009, 09:41 PM   #3
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sounds like an alternator problem...
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Old 08-07-2009, 12:38 PM   #4
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The battery has been load tsted twice and is just over two years old and I replced the ignition switch last month. How much voltage should the alternator put out while the car is running? Any idea where can i get the alternater tested? Auto (crap) zone does not have the lugs to test this one.
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Old 08-07-2009, 12:51 PM   #5
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Quote:
Originally Posted by THTABE
The battery has been load tsted twice and is just over two years old and I replced the ignition switch last month. How much voltage should the alternator put out while the car is running? Any idea where can i get the alternater tested? Auto (crap) zone does not have the lugs to test this one.
The Bosch alternator s/b putting out 13.5V - 14.5V under load. Anything in that range indicates OK, anything outside that range (upper or lower) indicates a problem.

If your diodes are good (voltage regulator), it's unusual for the Bosch to have problems with the windings, but certainly not impossible. If all else fails, you can always go to the dealer to have it tested, but also shop locally for automotive electric repair shops and those specializing in starter/alternator repair.

If the regulator is good, then I'd suspect that you have a short to ground somewhere in the system which is causing battery drain. But, realize that even a two yr. old battery can fail. Electrical issues are always a pain to track down, but just use a slow steady approach and you'll find it.


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1990 BMW 325is
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