Audi 5000S Quattro not charging

[Huppert, Eric]

Lokkju,

Installing voltmeters: If it were my car I would want to find and fix the
problem, not be able to monitor it!  :o) Besides, think we have enough to
look at on the road with out MORE gauges!

So, below is my experience and suggestions to type 44's charging sagas.

1. Use the correct belts and replace the adjuster... Think the adjusters are
less than $10

2. Replace brush and regulator assy with a Bosch unit. (Not that
expensive)Make sure you get the right one. Not sure if yours is the 90 or
110 amp alternator. But, unfortunately know that the cheaper 90 amp reg
won't last in the 110 amp alt. Kind of a slow learner, did it twice. (Beware
of the AutoZone, America, whatever guy, they don't know much more than what
the computer tells them) Told them year and model, they didn't know there
was a difference. (At least they replaced it after six months with the
incorrect one again)

3. Field wire has connector on top of the frame rail just forward and above
alternator. Had a problem where it kept coming unclipped, wasn't "exciting"
the alternator. Ensure connections are clean and tight. 

4. Clean and inspect all wires on the starter hot post.

5. Crimp under pass carpet (never done that, but understand that's a common
problem).

6. Your car has the digital climate control head which has a voltmeter.
Press "off" and outside temp button" simultaneously" and 01 should appear.
Push temp control until you get to "11" and hit outside button again. Not
sure if this is 100% correct though, see Scotts site.....
http://www.sjmautotechnik.com/trouble_shooting/elec.html    Keep in mind
there is a substantial voltage drop between there and the battery and is
normal. But, you can measure battery voltage with a meter and than look at
the climate control and figure out the difference. Sure there will be some
variation, but will give you a rough idea of your charging voltage (i.e. 12
volts climate control may be 14 volts at the battery....) while driving

6. Invest in a good meter. I have a digital one from MAC tools that's
probably 15 years old. Still works and I use it for automotive and stuff
around the house. You probably don't need a super good one, but a middle of
the road (versus cheap crap) model would suffice. If I'm not mistaken Sears
has Fluke models(Might be wrong though) As always, you get what you pay for!

I'm kind of anal when it comes to finding and fixing problems. I use OEM
quality parts in the hope they'll outlast my 287k 200 (except regulator
above)! I also get very perturbed when I have to fix items twice!!!!! 

Also must admit, I don't own a Bentley but have managed to rehabilitate two
type 44's and "run the wheels off" another one. Most of the 44's have
similar problems and there's a wealth of enthusuiast based info on the web. 

If you go through the entire system methodically you're bound to find the
problem and eliminate anything lurking in the shadows. 

Nuff said......

Eric