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

On Mon, 28 Apr 2008 15:52:57 -0400, bidservice@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
 wrote:

>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".

Not so I've seen some with commutator type slip ring contacts - early
Lucas
spring to mind.
>
>> 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.

But with those that maybe cheaper than Bosch you can only take them back
to the
shop you bought from whereas Bosch have a national dealership and any
branch
will swap out a faulty unit FOC if you have the necessary paperwork in the
car
and it's within warranty period.

It's a bind having to pay for a new unit and then take the faulty one back
fro
another - you won't get the cash back.
-- 

Sir Hugh of Bognor

The difference between men and boys is the price of their toys.
 
Intelligence is not knowing the answer but knowing where and how to find
it!

Hugh Gundersen
hsg@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
 Regis, W.Sussex, England, UK