i might have to replace my alternator. How practical is it to do without removing the engine. Mines a 1979 with a 1600 twin port Steve
What's actually wrong with the alternator? You may be able to replace the brushes and/or regulator with it in the van.
This ^^^^^. You CAN change the whole thing in situ but it'll take twice as long ad is a right PITA. A friend in the trade reckons half the alternators he gets in on exchange didn't need to be removed, most common faults are brushes, diode/regulator packs, poor/corroded connections and with VW's particularly the dash bulb!
At the moment I just get the light on the dash when engine is running. I need to check it with a meter when it's running. If it's not working properly then I was planning to replace it. How practical is it to change the brushes in situ? Where are the diods and are they easy to replace
I swapped out my scoobty alternator the morning of my ferry and it turned out to be that pesky bulb...
Assuming the fan belt is still attached............... The diode pack and brushes could be a ten minute job or a lot longer depends on the make / type of alternator. It'll be clearer once you have a look.
its easy, a bit fiddly but easy 20 mins on a dynamo, 5 on an alternator, depends on which alternator , yours may be internal or externally regulated
No idea, I'm in the process of removing the alternator without dropping the engine ! We checked the output from the alternator and it was low so thought it best to replace it. Where is the regulator ?
Alternator is now out, I've taken the top section , brushes look ok, no idea about the regulator . How do you test it or do you just replace the entire alternator
I have a type 4 2.0 litre and the regulator is external and located on the right hand side of the firewall, not sure if yours is internal and would come with one fitted if a new unit. I would fit a new alternator and check running output, I have had 2 new faulty regulators and have now sourced a original Bosch one which so far is ok.
