Replacing Valeo Alternator

[robm2]

Is it OK to replace a Valeo alternator with one of a different manufacture, as long as it is the same capacity? The one installed is a 120 A Valeo, but I can get a rebuilt 120 A Bosch for way, way less than anything else. Themounting points, pulley and connections appear the same.

Thanks.

 

[mittzlepick]

Should be the same quality is always the issue. I get a year out of lifetime az units on my bew but they are a quick change v.s. alh

 

[DonL]

I was told any of the three brands would be fine. I bought a Valeo. Changing it out is an adventure, but goes easier once you figure out how to remove the serpentine belt tensioner.

 

[Mozambiquer]

Is it OK to replace a Valeo alternator with one of a different manufacture, as long as it is the same capacity? The one installed is a 120 A Valeo, but I can get a rebuilt 120 A Bosch for way, way less than anything else. Themounting points, pulley and connections appear the same.

Thanks.

Yes, they're the same mounting and everything. Don't get a parts store branded one though, get an actual Bosch, or actual Valeo.

 

[oilhammer]

I always replace the Valeo units with a Bosch. When my BHW's original from the factory Valeo gave up at 160k, it got a Bosch replacement, and I expect it to last longer.

 

[BobnOH]

Yes, that Bosch unit sounds great. But beware, if the thing is way cheaper, there could be a reason. Parts buying has become a black art. Starters, alternators and the like want to be quality replacement on these cars.

 

[mittzlepick]

Ive had luck with az alternators till recently

 

[Mozambiquer]

Ive had luck with az alternators till recently

I've seen that all the major parts store brands have gone badly downhill lately. Auto zone, Napa, O'Reilly's, etc.

 

[Nero Morg]

I've seen that all the major parts store brands have gone badly downhill lately. Auto zone, Napa, O'Reilly's, etc.

But lifetime warranty, right? He said sarcastically.
I only buy replacements from idparts now after my last Napa starter.

 

[Mozambiquer]

But lifetime warranty, right? He said sarcastically.
I only buy replacements from idparts now after my last Napa starter.

As my coworker says "the best warranty is one you'll never need" he also likes to say "buy once, cry once"

 

[Volkswagen hippie]

Do you have any warranty come backs on your starters and altenaters?

 

[Nero Morg]

Warranties exist for a reason. I did have to warranty an alternator once from idparts, but it's not their fault it was bad. Bearings were damaged, so it literally was grinding as you tried to turn the pulley by hand. They direct shipped me one to replace it and paid for the return label. Bunch of good guys over there. Everything else I've gotten so far has been going flawlessly.

 

[Volkswagen hippie]

I'm sorry i meant mozambiquer.

 

[Mozambiquer]

Do you have any warranty come backs on your starters and altenaters?

Is that question for me? I have had a few warranty comebacks, though never on the VW ones so far. I do both the Valeo and Bosch ones and have had good luck with them. I also use oem parts for them though.

 

[Volkswagen hippie]

Oh okay