1983 SC Charging Problem
 

I recently purchased a 1983 911SC with a charging problem. Mechanic doing the inspection says he can not give me an estimate on the cost to replace the alternator until he gets in there and sees what type I have installed. He says there are two or three different types listed in his book for a 1983 SC. He also says this is a big job.

Regardless of what type I have, wouldn't the alternator types be interchangeable? How big a job (in hours) is this? I searched the forum and it seems like it is a 3-4 hour job. Anyone know what the Porsche repair manual flat rate is? I am tempted to try it myself with the repair instructions found here. Thanks.

Run Forest run. Look for another mechanic. Looks like he is trying to rip you off. Something simple as replacing an alternator he should have an estimate of the time required to remove and replace the alternator along with an estimated cost of an alternator either new or rebuilt.

There was only one type of alternator for a 83 sc.

You need to take the car to a Porsche mechanic or an established alternator shop. Either one will tell you up front what the charge will be. The alternator shop may be able to rebuild the alternator you have and save you some money.

Like the man said....
 

RUN, don't walk. Go to an good alternator shop. They can test
and tell you whether it is the alternator or just a voltage regulator. VR much cheaper, but in any event, it is not a big
deal. When I was having charging problems the alternator was
in and out so many times I lost count. Actually even a novice
can pull one in less than 30 minutes. Good luck.

This is the bigest rip- off there is, one guy on this board a few days ago told his mechanic wanted 1100.00 to replace his! Its a 200.00 part and 2 hours labor max. Save your money. If you own a Porsche learn to work on it.
Good luck.

Post your location! maybe someone in the area can give you a hand.

Thanks guys. I am in the Columbia, Maryland area. I double checked with a local Porsche dealer and they will do the job for $538. I think I am going to run away...

If money is no object....
 

I would check with a reputable alternator shop...a good re-built
alternator will run somewhere around $200...Installed about $300.
If it is the VR, you're looking at between $50-$125 installed.
Good luck

WT. here is the how to:

http://www.pelicanparts.com/techarticles/911_alt_replace/911_alt_replace.htm

Columbia huh, maybe 20 min. away. I do side work. :)