Things have turned pear-shaped.
Last Tuesday the old alternator was removed after wrecking most of the front of the vehicle to access it, wheels removed, drive shafts, steering box and hydraulics, wishbones, the works looked like a bomb hit it. Then to find the Repco/NAPA replacement was not correct even though matched to my vehicle model and VIN by them. Mounting points were different, pully wouldn't line up with belts, and pulley was for 6 rip belt not 7 rib as needed. So a mess ...
The mechanic rang around various sources and supply always seems an issue, none in Australia quoted 6 to 12 weeks delivery. The original is a 150 amp Bosch alternator specifically used on Fiat's intended for use as motorhome.
Sadly the mechanic couldn't leave my MH in bits as he needed his workshop for other jobs, so put it all back together that night as he had urgent work next day.
When the mechanic finished up and was bleeding the steering system which involves turning the steering wheel to opposite locks for a self-bleed, in the process he heard something like breaking plastic sound behind the wheel horn and the Airbag warning light is now up. Apparently it’s called the 'clockwork spring' and is a coiled up flat cable from ECM to steering wheel controls.
Next day when I took it back to the van park there is also an ESC alarm! The guy is a diesel mechanic and didn't want to get involved with the electricals or air bag. Apparently you must be licensed to play with Air bags?
I rang Williams Auto Electricians in Cairns re rebuilding the alternator but they also say components are an issue and reluctant to take it on and they definitely wouldn’t get involved with the air bag or ESC system. I contacted the Fiat repairers in Cairns and they said they are flat out through to end of July the earliest they could look into it.
There is a European vehicles service centre which includes Fiat Professional in Townsville who seem happy to do a diagnosis and see what’s involved for us. Pretty unsafe to drive and I'd have to keep the engine battery charged, so RACT have organised 'Reardons' to backload on a flat tray the 540km plus to Townsville next Tuesday. Oh dear