Alternator Bosch or OEM Volvo

My Lucas 18ACR (43 Amp) died shortly after I installed a big electric fan (I moved to Texas and felt it was a good idea), so decided to go with a higher output Bosch. I got tired of searching the parts shops (Advance Auto etc.) for a reconditioned Bosch that might or might not fit... In the end, I took my Lucas to an alternator shop and asked for a Bosch that would fit without modifications.

New Bosch installed Thanks for your help. It was in fact the alternator. Had a NEW Bosch installed by M&M Auto/Cycle in Jersey . Mikes the man when it comes to TDI service.

Order a 6 groove 120A alt though. It's an easy no brainer update. The car benefits under heavy loads and startup. Rainy days when the lights, wipers, a/c, heater, seat warmers, etc are all running will be worry free and your battery will charge back up with less drive time.

Voltage regulator is built into the alternator. If you're seeing 14.5 V with the engine running it's as good as it is going to get.

ran this one a bit in my 88 16v scirocco. works fine. a bit biger than the sotch as far as size.

A few hard lessons I learned: Have a voltmeter and ensure your battery is good, a bad battery will kill a good alternator (12.6V min on non running car) Find a reputable guy that rebuilds starters and alternators and try to get your alt rebuilt or find a new Bosch.

I would try replacing it with a stock Bosch alternator.

Got it. So am I correct in thinking that these Bosch alternators have both diodes to get to DC and voltage regulators to make it a clean voltage?

I recently replaced my alternator with a new Bosch. It has been running fine now for about 300 miles. Now however my alternator light is coming on.

I had a Bosch reman that self-machined itself to pieces in less than a year on my street car - the car that rarely saw more than 5K rpms. The Bosch replacement seemed to work OK but I sold the car shortly thereafter.