E30 Charging Problem

[davisj44]

Hello Universe,

I am having a charging problem with my 1985 BMW 325e and I was hoping I could find some help. I have recently replaced the alternator (refurbished) and battery as well as had them tested to rule them out as the culprit, yet I am still getting no power to the battery. I understand the mechanical side of cars, but when it comes to electrical, I am a simpleton. I took it to a shop that specializes in imports and they were able to detect that there was no power at all being pulled to the battery from the alternator. The ground wires were good and not corroded. They told me they would move onto other tests but they need to see if the low voltage light is on on the cluster. The problem is that the cluster is removed and being restored at this moment and won't be back for a few weeks. Is there any other test that can be done or a possible internal regulator that can be replaced? I feel like there should be something else that can be done in this situation to find the issue.

[superj]

that's why its not charging. you have to have the light in the cluster to charge. its part of the system.

[my1stE30]

that's why its not charging. you have to have the light in the cluster to charge. its part of the system.

this is correct ..

[davisj44]

You learn something new everyday. I appreciate the help.

[superj]

if your cluster was in place, but the light was burned out, your alternator would not charge your battery. that's why when you turn the key to start, you always look for the alternator light.

[richardodn]

Note that later years they included a resistor parallel to the light so the car would still charge and start even if the light is burned out.

[unkelmichael]

Sorry to resurrect this thread but having the same issue on my 89. When did they include the resistor parallel to the light to allow the batter to charge?

[superj]

That, I do not know

[richardodn]

I'm not certain either, but I believe by 89 it was in place.