648 votes
I went with the cheaper Bosch unit myself for my M3, and it's been working well for the past 4k miles.
If the belt was melted to the alternator pulley, there was enough friction to melt the rubber. Simple answer, replace the alternator.
Also, my 90A Bosch alternator is about the same size and weight as my old 65A Bosch alternator. Going to a 90A alternator is a great cheap mod.
I did this on my mk1, along with a 90A Bosch alternator (AL49X ?) and a variable voltage regulator to get 14V. Also, I replaced all the tail lights and side markers bulbs with LED bulbs (superbrightleds) . This greatly reduced the amps drawn from the alternator.
I just replaced mine last week! I bought a remanufactured Bosch from FCPEuro. Looked brand new. Also was a pretty easy DIY.
Bosch is the OE manufacturer for motorcraft alternators so if you find a Bosch chealt cheaper, go for it. They're the same minus the motorcraft sticker.
That Bosch VR6 alternator was not a direct fit, but significantly easier than the Delcos other Rover owners commonly used. My method was faster, cheaper and way more reliable.
I figured alternator, so took it to Autozone to scan and everything passed. Then took it to Meineke for them to check and they told me alternator was bad and replaced it. Well my interior lights were still flickering so I took it back and they say seems like the one they installed was defective, so they replace it again with an OEM Bosch and also print me a printout of a bulletin stating that under load lights may flicker and there is no solution.
Get a Bosch or Denso alternator. I'd buy used before one of those brands. Just my preference, I know they sell tons of starters and alternators, but I don't like to do things twice.
Update: There was a direct short in the alternator and when it shorted internally it also took out the 200 amp protection fuse ($115) too for the battery. I got a new Bosch unit and I was happy to find out I did not have to bring it to the nearest dealership and that a local German repair shop were able to do it.
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