Re: 90 electrical problem

[WARATAP@aol.com]

In a message dated 97-07-13 19:20:53 EDT, mzvolane@sydney.ipex.com.au (Mark
Zvolanek) writes:

<< G'day Q-listers
 Every time I put a load on my '91 Audi 90 electrical system, i.e turn on   
 the lights or demister or change  to reverse, the radio flashes off for   
 few seconds, long enough for antenna to start going down. It is very   
 annoying. I think it's something with the alternator or regulator or   
 could it be some relay? What is your opinion? >>

Well, Mark, I'd have an electrical system check pronto.  Otherwise you might
be stranded somewhere (like what happened to me when I didn't quite catch the
signals).  The electrical system check should pinpoint the problem.  Symptoms
included dimming of the headlights under load.  In my case the brushes had
just plain worn out and wouldn't make contact with the stator.  How many
miles are on the car?  Mine had over 170K. You can replace the brushes, if
that's the case, buy a new brush pack (includes regulator), have the
alternator rebuilt (preferably by an authorized Bosch center), or buy a
rebuilt alternator.  Assuming the bearings aren't bad, I'd go with option #1
or #2, depending on how "hands on" you are with the car.  You could check
with Pep Boys for a rebuilt alternator, if you have one in your area.

-Ingo Rautenberg
'90 V8Q 178,000 miles (and feeling refreshed after Pikes Peak)