Re: 2001 530i 5-spd 91,00 miles. How to remove cover from back of

hsg@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
 wrote:

> In the past we used to twist the coiled lever springs to sit on the edge
of the
> brush carrier and when in place poke them into place with a bit of rod
or long
> thin screwdriver.

There normally is a set of lock holes - you put a paperclip through them 
  and they hold the brushes back. The paperclip is removed as the 
brushes and regulator are installed.

> When you have the cover off get a fine hacksaw blade and clean out the
> commutator segment spacers - these get filled by carbon dust from the
brushes
> and eventually will conduct between the segments and cause an internal
short
> circuit. Make sure the commutator surfaces are flat and clean - a piece
of emery
> paper is Ok for this unless you can remove the pulley and take out the
rotor and
> machine the thing in a lathe.

What commutator? Alternators use slip rings. The commutators went out 
around 1959 when generators became commonly used. The diodes do the 
rectifying - which is why it's called an "alternator".

> If going to this trouble it might be better to get a re-built unit from
an auto
> electrician - that is if you are sure the alternator is faulty - he can
check
> this for you while you wait and watch.

That's true - most anyplace that has a Bosch sign out front.

> Hugh

Or simply go to an Autozone, Pepboys, whatever in the US and pay $170 
for a rebuilt one.