Problem with electrics

[tiny]

I have problem with the electrics on my 1989 240 GL estate, it keeps blowing fuses for the day running lights and main fuel pump and has now started on the fuse for the dashboard lights as well, the alternator light glows dimly when the engine is running, the alternator is only about six months old. Any suggestions please?

[andykem]

When I had a problem last year with blowing bulbs on my 1980 262, it was the voltage regulator. Without the vr working the alternator was delivering 18+ volts. But in that case fuses did not blow, although the alternator light came on when the engine was stopped and ign off, because the circuits were passing to earth thru the regulator diodes.

Also, my original vr was a separate unit from the alternator. I now have an alternator with the vr built in. It may be that the regulator pack in the alternator can be replaced separately.

Think I would check the alternator volts first and also check for any short cicuits pretty well anywhere.

[Peter Milnes]

Make sure that there is an earth strap from the alternator casing to the engine block. This has caused problems for alternators on 700/900 series. Alternator output volts should be 14 - 14.5 Volts.

To replace VR remove two screws and withdraw regulator unit (with brushes). Replace with comparable unit complete with brushes.

All the best, Peter.