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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.

NOTE: Minimum length of carbon brushes "A" = 5 mm.
Fig 1: Identifying Minimum Length Of Carbon Brushes
G03306256Courtesy 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: Identifying Oscillogram Waveform (Fault-Free Alternator)
G03306257Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Oscillogram For A Faulty Alternator: 

One phase interrupted.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 3: Identifying Oscillogram Waveform (One Phase Interrupted)
G03306258Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Interturn fault.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 4: Identifying Oscillogram Waveform (Interturn Fault)
G03306259Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Open circuit in negative diode.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 5: Identifying Oscillogram Waveform (Open Circuit In Negative Diode)
G03306260Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Short circuit in positive diode.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 6: Identifying Oscillogram Waveform (Short Circuit In Positive Diode)
G03306261Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Open circuit in positive diode.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 7: Identifying Oscillogram Waveform (Open Circuit In Positive Diode)
G03306262Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Open circuit in exciter diode.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 8: Identifying Oscillogram Waveform (Open Circuit In Exciter Diode)
G03306263Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.