203000miles, Russ. I had new brushes fitted at the Bessais-Le-Fromental, French National, (2004?). Looks like it's the alternator gone this time

Have you got a voltmeter fitted on the car?
If the charging rate's on the high side, the brushes tend to wear down faster than if it's 14.4 volts or slightly less...

ken.

I have done over 100000miles since replaced though, so will have things checked out tomorrow. I've had the brushes out and they don't look greatly worn(certainly not as worn as the previous set I replaced, which pretty much fell apart when removed).

You might be surprised to see how much they're worn, if compared with a new set.

Also, when well worn, they may make good contact with the slip rings when trundling around locally, but 'windage' reduces contact at sustained high engine rpm, such as during a long trip on the open road...

ken.

Also, if the only symptoms you've been experiencing are being unable to charge your phone, it may be worth checking the voltage you're getting at the battery, compared to that which your socket thing is receiving. Could just be down to some less than ideal wiring?

I've had the voltage at the battery checked and there is no charging taking place. Got something up my sleeve, so hopefully report back later.

Ok, I've had the alternator properly tested and it's the brushes that have gone, I've managed to find an old set of brushes and now have a charging system that works. I'll need to get a new set from ECAS soon though.

Looks like I'll be getting brand new brushes a bit sooner than I hoped. I've been down to Bristol this evening and when I got back home and moved the other car to put the 2CV in the garage.......t'was dead, Jim. Oh well.

Not long got back from ECAS with new brushes, so will fit them in a bit.

Fitted them earlier and took the car for a run and so far it's working okay, so hopefully that issue is history.