Alternator problems?
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 114
Likes: 18
2001 ML320 (gave to family member), 2007 GL450
Alternator problems?
Hello All,
I used the STAR diagnostic to pull codes and it tells me my "generator" (i.e. alternator) is faulty.
Do I have replace the whole alternator or just the voltage regulator (VR) inside?
Is there a part number for the VR?
Thanks so much.
I used the STAR diagnostic to pull codes and it tells me my "generator" (i.e. alternator) is faulty.
Do I have replace the whole alternator or just the voltage regulator (VR) inside?
Is there a part number for the VR?
Thanks so much.
Member
Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 150
Likes: 30
1999 E240, 2007 GL500, 2004 Suburban Z71, 1997 Ford Escort MK7, 1979 VW Beetle
As the job to remove the alternator is a pain and it is impossible to replace the voltage regulator without removing the alternator, I recommend to full inspect it. In most of the cases you only need to replace the voltage regulator.
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 114
Likes: 18
2001 ML320 (gave to family member), 2007 GL450
Could I do it myself?
Thanks much.
Member
Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 150
Likes: 30
1999 E240, 2007 GL500, 2004 Suburban Z71, 1997 Ford Escort MK7, 1979 VW Beetle
Yes, you can do by yourself, the worst part is removing and reinstalling the alternator. With a multimeter you can test everithing in the alternator except the voltage regulator, that requires a tool that is very expensive (at least for me).
With this video you can see how to test every component:
To remove the alternator you have disconnect the battery, remove the radiator fan to have more room, and release the radiator. After that you have to remove the engine belt and finally lose the screws that hold the alternator. This part if the most difficult one as you have to hold it to remove the wires that are connected on it. Unfortunately I don't have any pictures of the removal as I most of the time I work alone.
With this video you can see how to test every component:
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 114
Likes: 18
2001 ML320 (gave to family member), 2007 GL450
Thanks very much for the directions. I just ordered the Duralast alternator from AutoZone today for ~$184 USD, which will take several days to arrive.
I really appreciate the help!
I really appreciate the help!
