Alternator

[klee]

Got a 1999 Jetta TDI.

Lights dimmed, lost power, required a tow. Prior to, my new battery never charged above 12.8 volts. So I assume my alternator needs replacing.

I understand that there are a lot of sketchy alternators out there, icluding Bosch. I've really had it with bad parts. Can anyone recommend a reliable source or make that I should purchase? And are there any other parts that I should replace along with the alternator? I'm going to have a mechanic do the work because I haven't time right now.

Thanks

 

[P2B]

Got a 1999 Jetta TDI.

Lights dimmed, lost power, required a tow. Prior to, my new battery never charged above 12.8 volts. So I assume my alternator needs replacing.

I understand that there are a lot of sketchy alternators out there, icluding Bosch. I've really had it with bad parts. Can anyone recommend a reliable source or make that I should purchase? And are there any other parts that I should replace along with the alternator? I'm going to have a mechanic do the work because I haven't time right now.

Thanks

I have always used Bosch remans, but if even those are sketchy these days I guess you are screwed.

Simon

 

[Andyinchville1]

I would go with bosch .... I've had good luck with mine ...

If you're going to do the alternator you might as well replace the one way pulley and belt too and maybe even the tensioner while your mechanic is there anyways...

 

[klee]

Also, is there any benefit or problem with upgrading from a 90 amp to a 120 amp alternator?

 

[ToxicDoc]

Also, is there any benefit or problem with upgrading from a 90 amp to a 120 amp alternator?

No problem. Benefit is an extra 30 amps at higher rpm, but if you haven't noticed a need for it get whichever is cheaper.

 

[mittzlepick]

Thought 120 was standard for tdi? 90 for gas powered. I get mine from azone and the other pkace lifetime warantee. Pulleys lock up before the charge goes

 

[IndigoBlueWagon]

IDParts.com - Diesel Parts

www.idparts.com

Customers have had good luck with all three of these, including the TYC. I'd probably go with the Bosch or Valeo, which are both OE suppliers to VW. The Valeo or TYC may be easier for you if you don't want to bother with a core return, which you'll have to do with the Bosch. Or you could pick up a Bosch locally.

Is your car an automatic? Automatic TDIs had 90 amp alternators because they didn't have coolant glow plugs. But I don't think the 90 amp alternator is readily available as a replacement. People usually install the 120 amp.

 

[Mozambiquer]

Bosch or Valeo is what I recommend. I actually rebuild with bosch parts myself, but these ones aren't a super simple rebuild, like a Chevy alternator. The main ones to avoid are parts store ones (the "new"ones are the worst) and any other off brand. I would also avoid Wilson, since they've really gone downhill in their quality.

 

[pedroYUL]

Alternator 120A [Valeo New] (A4)

Genuine, new Valeo alternator, 120A, for A4 models, no core charge or return. Includes clutched pulley....

www.idparts.com

I would go with Valeo new. I am super happy with the Valeo brand new starter in my '04.

 

[ToxicDoc]

Thought 120 was standard for tdi? 90 for gas powered. I get mine from azone and the other pkace lifetime warantee. Pulleys lock up before the charge goes

120 amp for manual tranny with the coolant glow plug heaters. 90 amp for automatic