W168 A170 CDI - Alternator failure, could it be anything else?

[moj91]

Our W168 A170 CDI (90Hp) will not start without a jump and then only runs for a few moments before stalling.

To my knowledge that suggests a failed alternator and the garage it is at suggests the same, but before we shell out for a new alternator, are there any other common failure points on the W168 which could cause the same symptoms? (Other than obvious things such as loose battery terminals etc.) The W168 has been otherwise quite reliable in its near 20 years.

Thanks.

 

[Mark A]

have you done a check to see what the charging voltage is with engine off and running??

 

[moj91]

have you done a check to see what the charging voltage is with engine off and running??

Not had chance, assuming the garage has.

 

[star]

Is the fan belt ok?

 

[moj91]

Is the fan belt ok?

supposedly.. I should have mentioned the car is on the Isle of Wight and I am in Northampton, so trying to manage it from afar!

Are Remy alts any good? That is all the garage are offering to fit at this time.

 

[mattkh]

In the current climate, the considerations have become numerous BUT it is generally a good idea to start with changing the so-called Voltage Regulator which is just bolted onto the alternator and contains the carbon brushes which wear out with usage.

 

[moj91]

In the current climate, the considerations have become numerous BUT it is generally a good idea to start with changing the so-called Voltage Regulator which is just bolted onto the alternator and contains the carbon brushes which wear out with usage.

I have asked the garage to look into this but they have refused, stating that they will only replace the whole unit. If the car was with my at my unit i would happily give that a go.

 

[LostKiwi]

Northampton? Not far from me

Have you had them fully charge the battery and try it?
It should run for some time on a fully charged battery I would have thought.

 

[alexanderfoti]

Yes check the idler pulleys and belt, they often fail and fling the belt off. Usually give warning by going *squeak, squeak, squeak, squeak* before hand

 

[moj91]

Seemingly no belt failing squeeks, or unhappy idlers. But i cant test myself as the car is 120 miles away... I'd like to think they could establish that competently.

They haven't bench charged the battery - it will need it if its been deeply discharged.