pesposito

While changing oil on a 91 300TE 4matic, I spilled the oil and as a result power-washed the engine. When I started the car, virtually all the idiot lights came on. Ran it for a while and they went off. Then added coolant, spilled a bit and the lights came on again, this time for good.

Have figure out that the alternator is not charging the battery and changed the regulator. Still have the lights and no charge. PLEASE HELP! I'm 200 miles from the nearest MB dealer.

pifcat2

Washing the motor with water or steam is always risky because water can get into the connectors and cause havoc. You should inspect and dry out all the wiring connectors and elect. components relative to the instrument panel since instrument lighting is irratic. See if any other electrical components are working properly and backtrack the wiring to the battery or charging system.

pesposito

Thanks: I've looked at everything I can (at least at my ability level) and have found nothing) The car has been in a heated garage for over a week, I have air dried very connection I can see and stil get the idiot lights and still view the laternator as not charging. Any other ideas wil be much appreciated.

bamberger_1

Check the ground connection of the alternator it may be lose or corroded. If the diodes of the alternator are shot you need a replacement alternator. Power washers are not the best solution for cleaning the engine compartment. The alternator practically has no protection against water entering. Together with the carbon dust inside (coming from the wear of the brushes) it results in a very conductive "smear" creating lots of not reproducable failures. If you are handy take the alternator out, take it apart and clean thouroughly, it may be ok. If diodes are gone then :-(