250,000 KM and still on the original alternator ( 1998 Audi A4 . Bosch 120 Amp Alternator ) . Had to replace a couple of bearings but that's it.
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.
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.
I pulled the alternator to have it tested at o'reillys. Test showed it was dead so I bought a reman'd Bosch, but still needed a jump. Car fired up right away, but the voltage gauge still read low and just slowly dropped until the car died again.
Funny thing is, the Bosch alt. I had in the car at the time is sitting in the car in my driveway. Okay, I replaced the brush pack a few times. The 90 Amp alt. itself is at least 10 years old, if not more.
So, OK, ended up getting a Bosch Reman from IMC, installed it to find out it was only producing 10Volts @ idle. Took it back out, and installed an Ultima which put out 14Volts @ idle.
We have been having a lot of trouble with Bosch reman alternators and starters in the last couple years. Pretty sad, used to be great stuff. Now all the boxes say made in china and everything is crap.
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