Alternator Question

**khj677turbo** · 10-25-2008 11:59 AM

Hey guys, my alternator died on my car and i need a replacement. I did some searching and besides still not being sure about needing a 70 or 90 amp, I also am not sure if there is a specific brand I need. The local parts store has 3 amp choices but didnt seem to give me a manufacture choice. Thanks for the help.

**k0mpresd** · 10-25-2008 12:05 PM

etka lists a 120amp too. i think the only way to know for certain what is on the car is to check the specs on your current one. although, in theory, any amperage/brand should fit. i probably wouldnt buy a 70amp.

**zrowcool** · 10-25-2008 12:11 PM

yea i would get the highest one. it wont hurt anything. just make sure it fits

**khj677turbo** · 10-25-2008 01:13 PM

Ok, well if i dont need a 120 then i would like to avoid it, especially the cost, and I dont think i will ever benefit from a larger alternator since I dont have a sound system etc.
A higher output alternator just has a larger coil on the inside correct? Wouldnt the 70 to a 120 amp have a similar housing?
Also, no one touched the question about what Brand I need or if it matters.

**Seerlah** · 10-25-2008 02:07 PM

You would need either a Bosch or a Valeo. You will not be able to call the dealer and give them your vin number to determine which one you will need. The difference with the brand is about fitment issues. If you have a Valeo one in there currently and purchase a Bosch unit, it will not bolt up. And vice versa. You would need to remove the alternator and the brand w/amperage should be stamped on the unit. And just get the 120 amp one. It will not hurt anything as and can only grant you more power. You have circuit breakers/fuses to stop excess energy, so no concern. But if you end up adding more electronics to your vehicle, the 120 amp can only help.

You could always find a used one, but new ones or remanufactured ones will have warranties. Just pay the core charge, replace, bring your old alternator to where ever you purchase and get your deposit for the core back.

**k0mpresd** · 10-25-2008 02:35 PM

Originally Posted by k0mpresd

although, in theory, any amperage/brand should fit.

Originally Posted by khj677turbo

Also, no one touched the question about what Brand I need or if it matters.

hi. im earth. have we met?

**khj677turbo** · 10-25-2008 03:06 PM

lol whoops, sorry kompressed, im multi tasking!

**k0mpresd** · 10-25-2008 03:43 PM

happens to the best of us.

**ShawFM** · 10-26-2008 10:10 AM

Originally Posted by khj677turbo

Hey guys, my alternator died on my car and i need a replacement. I did some searching and besides still not being sure about needing a 70 or 90 amp, I also am not sure if there is a specific brand I need. The local parts store has 3 amp choices but didnt seem to give me a manufacture choice. Thanks for the help.

I replaced mine 2 weeks ago, also a 2000 ATW.
It was a Valeo 120 AMP alternator. It took me only about 30 minutes (link I used to swap alternator).
As far as pricing locally I paid about $230 including tax. The 90amp was actually more.