350i alternator

[tomsugden]

My alternator is playing up, and I need to replace it. It's a 1989 350i, and I can see it's a lucas alternator, but I can't see the numbers unless I dismantle it. Does anyone know if this will fit:

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Rover-V8-Alternator_W0QQitemZ4

Any help appreciated. Thanks.

[dickymint]

According to the "Wedge Epistles" the LRA407 should fit. Happy bidding.

[tomsugden]

Thanks for your help DM.

[number 7]

have you tried looking at / changing the brushes? A lot cheaper than a new unit.

7.

[350zwelgje]

number 7 said:

have you tried looking at / changing the brushes? A lot cheaper than a new unit. 7.

Agree with this: especially if diode-pack is ok.
And it is even possible to change the brushes yourself (even cheaper).

Rob

[JR]

Mine just needed a new chip. £10 fitted by myself.

[tomsugden]

I'm told it's the regulator that is faulty. It charges the battery ok when not under load, but as soon as the lights, heater, radio etc are turned on it can't cope, and the charge rate drops to below 11 volts. I've put a new battery in and am certain there is no fault with it.

[JR]

tomsugden said:

I'm told it's the regulator that is faulty.

Sounds very similar to the problem that I had. I'd check it out. (The regulator is the chip.)

[redwedge5]

Magneti Marelli type A127 - 65 alternator fitted to my wedge.

[njhucker]

I had exactly the same symptons, so had mine reconditioned.
The invoice states it is a A133 Alternator. Cost was £85,but that included new bearings, Diode pack, brushes, clean & paint.
Now works a treat

[tomsugden]

I won the ebay auction, so hopefully the new one will give me a good few years service.

Thanks all for your assistance.