Checking and replacing generator/voltage regulator brushes (BMW 3 Series E46)

Removal

1. Disconnect the negative (-) battery cable with the ignition off. The battery is located in the luggage compartment behind the cover on the right side. In BMW 316i, 318i cars, the battery is located in the engine compartment.

Disconnecting the battery will erase the fault memory of some control units. If necessary, read the fault memory before disconnecting the battery. Refer to Section Troubleshooting. It is advisable to carry out the work in a service station.

Bosch Generator



2. Remove the V-belt "1" and the generator "2", refer to the relevant section.

3. Unscrew the three mounting screws "6" and remove the protective cover "5".

4. Unscrew the two screws securing "4" of the voltage regulator "3" on the rear cover of the generator and carefully remove it.



5. Replace brushes "2" on voltage regulator "1" if their length is 5 mm or less. To do this, unsolder the cables.



6 Check the wear of the contact rings. If necessary, treat and polish them.

7. Clean the contact surfaces and check the stiffness of the contact springs, replace them if necessary.

Installation

8. Insert brushes "A" and springs "B" into brush holder "C". Solder the cables.

9. To prevent solder from getting on the brush cables, hold the cables with pliers.

As a result of solder getting on the cables, the latter become unacceptably rigid and unsuitable for installation.

10 An insulating tube should be secured near the place where the cable is soldered.

11. After installing new brushes, it is necessary to check the ease of their movement in the brush holder.

12. Tighten the voltage regulator first by hand, then gently press it into the final position and tighten it.

13. Secure the protective cover to the rear of the generator.

14. Install the generator, refer to the relevant section.

VALEO Generator

Removal

15. Remove the generator.

16. Loosen the three mounting screws and remove the generator protective cover.

17. Unscrew the two mounting screws and one nut and remove the voltage regulator.

Installation

18. Install the new voltage regulator with the mounting cover in place and tighten it lightly.



19. Remove the mounting cover upwards.

20. Secure the protective cover.

21. Install the generator.

[The original article is posted on the resource «bmwman.ru»]