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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. See 12 32 501 Replacing voltage regulator (Valeo/Bosch) 

NOTE: Minimum length of carbon brushes "A" = 5 mm.
Fig 1: Removing Voltage Regulator & Checking Carbon Brushes
G03123600Courtesy 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: Oscillogram For A Fault-Free Graph
G03123601Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Oscillogram for a faulty alternator: 

One phase interrupted.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 3: Oscillogram For A Faulty Graph
G03123602Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Interturn fault.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 4: Interturn Fault Graph
G03123603Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Open circuit in negative diode.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 5: Open Circuit In Negative Diode Graph
G03123604Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Short circuit in positive diode.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 6: Short Circuit In Positive Diode Graph
G03123605Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Open circuit in positive diode.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 7: Open Circuit In Positive Diode Graph
G03123606Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Open circuit in exciter diode.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 8: Open Circuit In Exciter Diode Graph
G03123607Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.