[B3M2W8iC]

Hey guys,
I just bought a 97' 328i convertible and the car used to start find. It was little bit hard when was cold, but it ran. I decided to replace the drive belt, cause it was crack. After I did that I tried to started, but didn't work and trying I drained the battery.
After recharging the battery I tried again, but the battery when dead pretty quick. So now the car has a new battery, but won't start. :conf It feels like is not getting fuel, but I can smell it from the exhaust.

I'm sure is easy, can somebody guide on what to do please?

Thanks

 

[witeshark]

The ignition system may need a look. What do you mean by 'drive belt'?

 

[B3M2W8iC]

I replace the serpentine belt

 

[witeshark]

Has the voltage regulator been checked/

 

[B3M2W8iC]

No. This is my first bimmer, can u tell where is that. Like I said it was running fine until I change the serpentine. The only thing I took out was the air filter box and the alternator plastic conduct

 

[B3M2W8iC]

I found where the voltage regulator is. Can you tell how to troubleshoot it?

 

[BimmerE39]

I would have your alternator checked to see if it's putting out the correct voltage to charge the battery. It should be somewhere in the 14 volt range. I don't think you can change the voltage regulators without replacing the entire alternator itself.

 

[B3M2W8iC]

I just noticed that the air flow meter boot (intake bellow) have a significant crack in it. Could this prevent the car from starting?

 

[BimmerE39]

More than likely it would cause a small vacuum leak. I doubt that this would prevent the car from starting. Try taping it up temporarily and see if it makes a difference but I highly doubt it since you originally stated that the battery went dead.

 

[witeshark]

I don't think so; it's more likely to cause rough idle after it starts.

 

[B3M2W8iC]

Well if you have a Bosh alternator you can replace the voltage regulator. Anyway guys, that was my problem. The car is up and running like a champ. Thanks for all your help.