Alternator replacement or repair?

[ajge]

Hi
My alternator has stopped working, 2000 4.0l :(
Where is the best place in Sydney for a overhaul or purchase a new one?
Any help appreciated.
Regards
Andrew

[RR P38]

I had some intermittent flashing of the battery light while on a drive yesterday.
TRS Padstow $275 pretty sure this is an aftermarket unit at that price genuine is about $400.
If you wait you can get one delivered from the UK for about $170.
I had mine rebuilt about 6 years ago the voltage regulator usually goes in them it was about $100 for this option, could be more now.

[Keithy P38]

Had mine rebuilt at mates rates a year ago for $300... Go the aftermarket if you want to save the hip pocket.

[Hoges]

Not being funny here: If you can start the engine, give the alternator casing a couple of sharp taps with a hammer using a piece of wood to absorb the hammer strike...or belt it a couple of times with a rubber mallet. Look for black dust coming out of the alternator: Depending on how many km it's done, may well be simply that the brushes have clogged up and are not contacting the split rings properly.

Replacing the regulator (containing new brushes) is a 20 minute job or 40 mins over a cup of coffee:D I was able to source a rew regulator on the net (ebay) less than $50(Australian) incl postage from the USA...was here in 5 days from posting order. Make sure you know which model alternator you have...

Given it's probably a Bosch, there are multiple posts on how to change the regulator... check esp.in the BMW enthusiasts forums!:wasntme:

[RR P38]

Have replaced my Alternator today with a 120 amp model.
The original was 100 amp.
Pretty much the only difference is that the belt drive size is 15mm smaller, so she spins a bit faster.
Bench test load shows 143 amps @6000rpms.
It has 0.5 volt more at idle than the one it replaced.