I'm having trouble with my 1988 900s. I just got a new battery and it won't start unless I jump it. It runs OK, except the check engine light comes on and off while driving as it has been doing for awhile. After running for awhile, it won't start unless I jump it. Does this sound like an alternator problem? If it is what might I expect to pay to have it fixed?
'88 900-Won't Restart
Nov 06, 2004
2 Replies
Alternator, or voltage regulator. You may have a local shop which deals in that specific thing, rather than the corner garage. Shouldn't be more than a couple hundred bucks, I wouldn't think; the alternator is right there where they can see it, so it's not too huge of a job. We could talk you through that job if you're interested.
Dave Hinz
is the light coming on / off dependant on the amount of revs you give? I found with mine when I revved high the light went out - this turned out to be the brushes inside the alternator, very simple and cheap to fix. Dont let a mechanic tell you they need to replace the whole alternator until they've ruled out the brushes. You could do it yourself its just two screws to remove the brushes then check they are not below the minimum length, very simple - get yourself a haynes manual. GG.
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