Alternator Bosch or VALEO

Alternators can be rebuilt. YMMV of course, but I rebuilt the Bosch alternator on my old Mk1 VW Rabbit several times (brush would wear down) with no issues.

I replaced it with a Duralast Gold. After replacing the issue still existed so I replaced the alternator with an OEM Bosch remanufactured unit.

I have a 1.8t motor in my Passat; but, I had to replace my alternator last January....and I took some pics...I went from a 90 Amp Valeo to a 120 Amp Valeo....the pulley had to be switched over to the new rebuilt unit (I went to an Alternator/Starter shop) ....old one on the left (90 A Valeo)....new one on the right (120 A Valeo)....

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.

Thanks for the help Waynep, ended up replacing the alternator itself and now its working like a charm!

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.

okay just did mine 14.7x after a cold start...can it be too much ? does that sound reasonble

Ok so I exchanged the alternator but just got it on this morning and the alternator i exchanged it with was a bosch which is a direct replacement of the original one i have, i hooked it all back up properly, new charge wire and its running at 11.4 volts now and still drops lol.