Alternator Compatibility questions

[MrSnickelsnizer]

So to add to the list of problems, my alternator took a crap on me :/ So I pulled the old one out and it is a 90amp Valeo unit with the 13mm nut for the main power wire and a 8mm nut for the smaller wire, No plug connections. My question is can I replace it with a 120 amp unit without any ill effects? Reason being I have added speakers, electric fan, lights, etc... And can I switch to a bosch reman unit that has the same connections as the valeo unit? The one that caught my eye and looks exactly like mine is this bosch reman from rock auto, http://www.rockauto.com/dbphp/x,cata...emy_13431.html. I may just go with a napa reman unit though if buying one from rock auto or going with bosch gets negative reviews.

[audinutt]

I did the conversion to the 120amp on my b5 without any issues

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[MrSnickelsnizer]

Good to hear that. Now did you swap from bosch to valeo or just stick to one brand and simply get a bigger model. Because I am currently eyeballing a remanufactured bosch alternator http://www.amazon.com/Remy-13431-Pre...art/B000CJRU2A and am not quite sure if there is something that could go wrong that I am not aware of by swapping brands..... Also Napa is having issues getting me the stock valeo replacement so I am looking for anything and the bigger the better I guess :/ They can probably get me a bosch replacement as well.

[Mad Cow]

They're all functionally identical, the only difference is the wire for the field voltage as you said. Worst case is you'll have to solder a connector onto your stock wire instead of the ring terminal.

[MrSnickelsnizer]

Worst case is you'll have to solder a connector onto your stock wire instead of the ring terminal.

If that is all then easy peasy. However it never seems that easy.

[Sp00led]

My alternator just died on me today. Two weeks after replacing all belts and tensioners.
Anyone know if I can find out how the part # or how many amp my dead unit is without physically pulling it out? Can't see a part number stamped on it or anything.
FYI.. I fairly recently converted to HID's, and rewired a remote starter that the previous owner had deactivated by clipping wires.
Thanks guys

[MrSnickelsnizer]

A mirror and a light. Need to find the sticker on the side of alternator that will say whether it is bosch or valeo presumably. There are also plastic molded stamp marks on the back of the alternator that will say bosch or valeo as well. Then when you go to napa or carquest or whatever part vendor, you can give them the brand so they can get you the right brand replacement. Also will need to know amperage which will be on sticker as well. As for a part #, no idea. That also would be on part sticker (If it hasn't worn off) but you have not even told what motor or trim level or anything about the car itself.