Hi all,

I need some help and advice. A couple of weeks ago my ’89 240DL died just as I pulled into the parking lot at work. The battery would not hold a charge – I tried jumping the battery – no luck. I purchased and installed a new battery and was able to drive home. However, as I drove home (16 miles) I noted that the Alternator Light (Battery Icon) on the dash was very dimly lit. I’ve not used the car since then and have tried checking for what the source might be. From prior experience, I know that the instrument cluster needs to be installed and connected in order for the alternator to charge the battery. (Earlier this year I had the dash apart to replace the heater blower motor.) Since the alternator was working fine before it’s not my 1st suspect. I'm guessing that the instrument cluster is not giving a signal to the alternator to charge the battery. I am suspicious that there may be an electrical connection or ?? that has come loose.

In attempting to troubleshoot the problem, I’ve noted the following:

When I turn the key from O (Off) to I (Intermediate or Accessory):

No warning lights – just as it should be

When I turn the key further to II (Drive or Run Position):

What should happen: All warning lights should go on.

What happens: Only Service Light (momentarily), Check Engine Light, Oil Pressure Light go on.

When I turn the key further to III (Start):

What should happen: All warning lights should go out after engine has started.

What happens: The engine starts and all lights go out except a very dim Alternator Light (Battery Icon).

Some ideas that I have to follow up on..............

Wiring from voltage regulator on alternator to "Alternator Warning Light" in instrument cluster?
Wiring/connection on instrument cluster?
Voltage stabilizer on instrument cluster?
Voltage regulator on alternator?

Thanks in advance.

Doug in Lakeview
__________________________________________________

1989 240 DL sedan (USA model)
silver exterior & black cloth interior