Date:         Mon, 2 Sep 2013 12:42:51 -0700
Reply-To:     Scott Daniel <scottdaniel@TURBOVANS.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Scott Daniel <scottdaniel@TURBOVANS.COM>
Organization: Cosmic Reminders
Subject:      Re: Alternator Failure 87 Syncro
Comments: To: Donna Skarloken <dskarloken@GMAIL.COM>
In-Reply-To:  <A6EC3F0A-F92E-4B26-8E76-51D56BEC4F8A@gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed

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