2004 GTI LE bad MPEM

[TheGator7.1]

New member, First post:

Found out the hard way you are not supposed to use Quick start charger or jump start from a running vehicle. Blew my MPEM. I am going to attempt the Diode replacement. $500+ for new MPEM, $350 for used, $130 for aftermarket. $6 for diode. I carefully exposed the bad diode thanks to other posts info. Now awaiting arrival of replacement. Will attempt to remove and replace diode. Thanks to all who posted about their similar problems. Will post result.


Diode exposed by careful use of dremel and hand picking with probe and razor knife.

 

[Coastiejoe]

Hope it solves the issue. Good luck with the repair.

 

[TheGator7.1]

Replaced diode today. Runs like a champ! Last step is to re-apply potting material.

 

[TheGator7.1]

All done. Re-potted with 3m DP270 potting compound. $12 in clear or black. I used clear. Practice with it. Designed for use with $70 applicator, but just like any 2 part epoxy, you can mix it yourself. Of my 3 batches (2 coats for component side, 1 for solder side) one was perfect with nice clear result, one was clear, but stayed tacky because I was not exact with my ratio (1:1), and the last was fine except I mixed too vigorously and it retained micro bubbles which left an opaque finish. All in all for $19 dollars and a little patience, I am happy.

 

[Coastiejoe]

Nice job on the repair,,,

 

[VinnyA77]

Nice one. Good to know there's some great info on here.

 

[Shovelmike]

Very clever repair. Thanks for posting this.