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Home >> BMW >> 2000 >> 528i 4D Wagon, Automatic, 5L40E >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Engine Performance >> Ignition System >> Engine Electrical System - Repair >> Alternator With Device >> 12 31 009 Checking alternator and regulator switch

12 31 009 Checking alternator and regulator switch

Test requirements: 

Connect DIS Tester. 

If charge indicator lamp is permanently lit:

Remove voltage regulator and check carbon brushes, replace if necessary.

Replace alternator regulator switch.

NOTE: Minimum length of carbon brushes "A" = 5 mm.
Fig 1: Identifying Minimum Carbon Brush Length
G03127655Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

If charge indicator lamp goes out while engine is running:

Check control voltage.

Regulator switch must be replaced if control voltage is not achieved.

Replace alternator regulator switch.

From E46/E39 with multifunction regulator. 

Recognizable by plug connection on regulator. Connect DIS Tester.

Oscillogram for a fault-free alternator: 

Fig 2: Fault-Free Alternator Oscillogram
G03127656Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Oscillogram for a faulty alternator: 

One phase interrupted.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 3: Faulty Alternator Oscillogram
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Interturn fault.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 4: Alternator Oscillogram - Interturn Fault
G03127658Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Open circuit in negative diode.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 5: Alternator Oscillogram - Open Circuit In Negative Diode
G03127659Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Short circuit in positive diode.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 6: Alternator Oscillogram - Short Circuit In Positive Diode
G03127660Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Open circuit in positive diode.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 7: Alternator Oscillogram - Open Circuit In Positive Diode
G03127661Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Open circuit in exciter diode.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 8: Alternator Oscillogram - Open Circuit In Exciter Diode
G03127662Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.