Mystery Alternator...not sure if there really is a problem

[Zulu95]

Modern Bosch alternators usually run around 13.85 Volts on the top end so you might be high.

[rfdude]

just checked again and yes more like $60.

[rfdude]

So I guess from the responses so far there is nothing more than the alternator to replace/repair...lovely. I would still like to know if anyone knows at what level the light illuminates and where that point is where it taps into the A+ line.

[TwinTurboGTR]

Well the charge light is indicating something is wrong with they system. For it to flicker like that, the voltage is inconsistent (Since you said you are pulling over 13v. If the alt was dead, it wouldn't pull anything. You would just see the voltage continue to run down. The regulator is faulty by not monitoring how much voltage is passing through.

I am not understanding what you mean by, "Where that point is where it taps into the A+ line." Statement.

You mean where the strap is connected to the alternator?

[rfdude]

Correct, where the wire from the dash connects to the monitoring point of the charging system for the reference voltage. If I knew where this was at least I could make sure its not corroded, intermittent, etc. I could also then take that wire off, put on a variable power supply and check the light on the dash for threshold voltage of when it comes on.

I realise this is likely way too much troubleshoot for something obvious but I do like to do my homework before I purchase stuff.

[SlickGT1]

You have over voltage. Considering the sensitivity of all electronics you have a huge issue. The regulator is efffed up. You need to address this ASAP before you fry some magor compotent. 14v should be max.

[rfdude]

based on this thread I have purchased a re-manufactured Bosch alternator. It will be replaced asap.

thanks everyone., I will keep you posted.

[tynashracing]

Originally Posted by SlickGT1

You have over voltage. Considering the sensitivity of all electronics you have a huge issue. The regulator is efffed up. You need to address this ASAP before you fry some magor compotent. 14v should be max.

Yeah, this can be very serious. I fried a computer in a 911 Carerra...not to mention the battery acid that puked everywhere.
You would think with all the crazy technology available...we could have voltage regulators that never over charge the system!

[740ilDuke]

You can monitor the voltage by unlocking the cluster. Here is a video my friend did to explain how to do so. If you want to know the resting voltage of your battery, do the following without starting the engine. It is explained herein. Good Luck!

BMW E38 Cluster unlock and voltage check Part 1 - YouTube