Found my battery dead this am.... Battery took a charge and started, but voltage is showing only 12.2 volts while driving at cigarette lighter plug.... usually was 13 plus. Battery tested OK at local shop, but they couldn't test alternator because the Autozone tech didn't know how to get a tach reading on a diesel!!! (no plug wires to attach to).

How do I test the alternator?

What else shoul I check?

Thanks...

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Mr Goodfahrt (pronounced FAIRT... means "good trip" in German)

1982 300D Turbo Pastel Gray (off-white) 200k+(?)
newbie but willing

Anything under 13 volts is a bad alternator charge output (Notice I did not say "a bad alternator"). First thing you should do is look for any disconnected/loose wires on the alternator. Second may be replace the voltage regulater (brushes) with This . If that does not fix your problem post back here.

(I just noticed the Bosch regulator is now $45! I'm glad I got mine when it was $18 )

Most likely is your voltage regulator brushes. Just buy the K-A-E voltage regulator for $17.46 from Fastlane. That should work as well as the Bosch regulator.


David

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1985 300D Turbo