Alternator Issues Again

[X5chemist]

Originally Posted by CLS70

Note it is an e70

I'm not familiar with the E70 variable charge alternator. I'm more familiar with GM. Should work the same though. It's ECM values you want to clear so it relearns to charge.

[DougPEX5]

Originally Posted by EODguy

Registration of the battery didn't start till the e70 series X5 so you are fine there.

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I registered a battery on my E70, but I agree the E53 variants do not require registration.

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[DougPEX5]

Originally Posted by oldskewel

4 Amps is about the right number to be flowing through the field windings (through the slip rings) at battery voltage. E.g., 12V supply, 3 Ohm field winding resistance = 4 Amps current through there if the negative side of the windings is grounded.

So that might give you a clue about where to look for the problem in case you are thinking about diagnosing or even fixing it yourself. I know it would be nice to just get a free replacement one that works, but ...

Sometimes, as I've noticed on a reman alternator purchase many years ago on a different car, something as simple as using little Phillips head screws that hold the VR in place, etc., which are too long can cause an internal short. I.e., the screw is supposed to hold the VR to something, but since the screw is too long, it goes through further and barely, intermittently, maybe after a year of vibration, touches a ground, leading to a problem like this.

Could also be a failure within the VR circuitry that holds a switch open when it should close. That would be exactly the sort of thing Chinese companies are notorious for - cutting costs on electrical circuits, since they can work perfectly for a brief period before failing once they are off the hook.

Thanks I WILL remember that. One last time with Bosch remanned. I did get what NAPA said was the last replacement in the US, so I’m taking one for the team if it’s junk. From now on new only. I have gotten really quick at changing these water cooled alternators out!


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[DougPEX5]

Saga continues…. The Bosch Reman box listed it as remanufactured in the USA so maybe good quality??? However the store manager instructed the guys at the counter that this is the third alternator (only two have been returned) and it’s the last one they will cover under the lifetime warranty. Way to stand behind your product and warranty NAPA! I’m calling tomorrow to discuss this decision with the manager. The guy at the counter said they think the car or installation is to blame. Yeah sure 8k miles it worked fine.


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