V8 3.6 running rich and not charging
 

So, this is what I get for beating the hell out my car on sand dunes... yes, I took a german touring car to the Gay Michigan stamp sands.

anyways, I had to change the plugs to get it started.. now it runs extremely rich and blows clouds of smoke... And seemingly the alternator is not charging.

Any suggestions???

If I need to replace the alternator, what is a price I should expect to pay? Are rebuilt/used ones available?


I learned my lesson... never do amazing feats in your Quattro without taking pictures.. because it just may be the last thing you do with that car.

Change your FPR and/or check fuel pressure.
 

Oh, and how's your air filter? A clogged filter will reduce oxygen flow and make the car run rich.

As for the alternator: I'd take it off, check voltage regulator brushes, and have it bench tested.

Re: V8 3.6 running rich and not charging
 

Sand Dunes HUH..

I'm guessing but you might have ripped off or damaged the O2 Sensors wiring. With a similar result with the alternator.

The alternator on the V8 pulls air in from the back side of the unit and gets sucked thru and out the alternator fan. I would pull it and blow it out really well and then pull the voltage reg to check the condition of the brushes (or have it bench tested as Scott suggested)

Depending on the damage you might only need to replace the brushes/VR unit and for that Rockauto lists one for as little as $25.00.

Good Luck!

-Scott

air filter is fine
 

its in the shop now... I'll let them know about the voltage regulator brushes