Voltage Regulator - E90 BMW

[Funky Toyz]

Hi Guys,

Last month I changed my voltage regulator of the alternator however the battery light started popping up again intermittently so I set out to check what could be the cause. I removed the alternator yesterday and found the regulator brushes have worn unevenly. Anyone know what the cause of this could be? Also there seem to be alot of grease on the shaft where the regulator fits onto. Is this normal? I removed most of it yesterday but did not want to chance it by spraying engine cleaner in there to help get rid of the grease. Any input will be appreciated.

The unevenly worn brushes.

 

[P1000]

Something is not right there. It should not be worn like that in a month. Firstly, figure out what the greasy liquid is - I would assume it is power steering fluid? Sort that out, since it might cause the problem. Secondly - is that an OEM part? Do you have a valeo or bosch alternator?

 

[Funky Toyz]

Something is not right there. It should not be worn like that in a month. Firstly, figure out what the greasy liquid is - I would assume it is power steering fluid? Sort that out, since it might cause the problem. Secondly - is that an OEM part? Do you have a valeo or bosch alternator?

I had an oil leak on the car and the alternator was covered in oil at one stage. I am thinking the oil seeped and with wear of the brushes created like a thick greasy substance. If it should be clean, I'll clean it as soon as I remove the alternator again.

That is an OEM part yes. I have the bosch alternator.

 

[Coisman]

imp:
Dude, my alternator packed up a few months after my expantion tank blew. The tentioner pully that sits on the alternator also had to be replaced. This was on my E46 325, and parts + labour set me back R860.
The work was done by an auto electrician here in Pretoria.

Good luck with your issue. :thumb:
Its never nice when one's car is giving problems... :nono: