1994 BMW 325 alternator problem

1994 BMW 325
190,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
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RJBAUERIUPUI
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I have replaced the starter in the vehicle and it was defective. When it burned up it took out the alternator. I have replaced the alternator and the AutoZone swears the alternator is good, they tested it. The gen light in the dash is on. I used a multimeter and tested voltage. The results are 11.5V at the battery, 11.5V at the pos jumper terminal at the firewall, 11.5V into the starter and 6V coming out, 6.5 coming into the alternator and 4V coming out. Do you have any ideas? AutoZone is notorious for low quality parts. Could it be a bad alternator, or the wiring from the alternator to the starter? Can I run a jumper wire from the starter directly to the alternator? If so, which of the two positive leads into the starter should I use?
Nov 16, 2009 at 5:16 PM
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DAVE H
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Hello .. thanks for the donation .. much appreciated Start by checking the battery is fully charged or replace with a known good battery .. with engine running @ idle (using voltmeter) you should have 13.8 - 14.5 volts @ battery and @ battery jump terminal and @ alternator B+ terminal (alternator to battery wire terminal on alternator) if you do not then the alternator is bad .. www.2carpros.com/how_to/how_to_test_alternator.htm hope this helps


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Nov 17, 2009 at 5:03 AM