Allan - I had these exact symptoms on my '81 SD and sure enough brushes were worn to a nubbins. Be advised, if you have to drive home with the headlights you may not make it as you will be running on the battery only so try and get home or to a shop before dark. Even in daylight if you have to jump it to start you may be driving without brake lights. Use caution. On the positive side, a new regulator assy. and all was well. A good thing to check before you spend the money on the regulator, if you can, is condition of the slip rings. If you have a mirror and flashlight look in the hole when you get the regulator out. I once had an alternator that the slip rings were really badly worn and in that case you should probably just get a Bosch rebuilt. I don't recommend using a McParts rebuild if you have a choice.
Barry -----Original Message----- From: mercedes-boun...@okiebenz.com [mailto:mercedes-boun...@okiebenz.com] On Behalf Of Jim Cathey Sent: Monday, February 23, 2009 6:43 AM To: Mercedes Discussion List Subject: Re: [MBZ] Alternator (and other) lamps are on > Checked the obvious -- the alternator belts are still there and don't > appear to be slipping. The brushes are probably worn down in yours. Pull them out and have a look. Takes a flat-blade screwdriver, does it not? A problem with diagnosing these is that the shortening brushes can conspire to make good contact at the doctor's office, yet be back to it almost immediately. -- Jim _______________________________________ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
