the first thing to do is remove the alternator belt and spin the alternator by hand. You may find the bearings are rough .. you may find the shaft has-up down play. you may find the bracket on the bottom of the alternator is loose or trying to break. then remove the alternator ( disconnenct battery of course )and take out the brush package/voltage regulator .... two screws. you may find the brushes very worn down. If nothing like the above issues arefound... a new Bosch Voltage Regulator/brushes holder gizmo may get you running just fine again. I would not recommend buying a Vanagon rebuilt alernator from NAPA auto parts. I do just fine with Bosch Rebuilt Alternators, if I am buying a whole new rebuilt one. That's all I'll buyeven. I would take a change on a Voltage Regulator only from them though. scott On 9/2/2013 11:44 AM, Donna Skarloken wrote: > I think my alternator failed last night. > > Facts: Left Bug-O-Rama in Sacramento. Probably only about 10 miles south of Sacramento the alternator/batter light came on. Stayed on a bit then went out and stayed out. Despite others wanting cold drinks at a Starbucks, I decided we had better get as close to home and hopefully all the way home (about 45 miles). Didn't make it; about 15 miles from home the fuel gauge quit as did the temp gauge. I managed to get to a gas station. Shut off motor to get gas and would not restart; we tried to push start but couldn't quite go fast enough; it almost started. Towed home. > > I was going to go to Napa today to get a new one but apparently they aren't open. I am a novice at repairs so wondered if there is anything else I should check or any installation advice? Also I would have thought alternator light would have stayed on? > > Thanks and Happy Labor Day. > > Donna, 87 Syncro |
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