85 3.2 Alternator question

asphaltgambler · 09-11-2005, 01:00 PM

My 3.4 project is moving along and one of things I want to service is my alternator. It was working fine but I want to either have it rebuilt and scope checked or purchase a rebuilt unit from a reliable firm.

Our host has them here but they are new and $$$. I live in Northern Va and am in the business but still am somewhat hesitant to give it to one of the local rebuilders.

Basically I want a ready-to-go unit either way W/O worrying about future failures from cheap parts or incompetent techs. I have seen a few on Ebay (eagleautoelectric) but again..........................the unknown.

That thing is a royal PITA if it goes south and I have to go back in there and replace it. Advice please.

curiousone940 · curiousone940's Garage

You usually get what you pay for......alternators are no exception!!

Joeaksa · 09-11-2005, 08:17 PM

Had my '85 alternator overhauled locally (in Dallas) for about $75. Worked great and was done by a "mom and pop" shop, which I trust a lot more than any chain.

JoeA

Eric Coffey · 09-11-2005, 09:59 PM

I got my last replacemnt from All Star Electric in Bellevue, WA for around $160 + core. It was a nice (completely) rebuilt Valeo. If you want the best out there, Dave Aase sells hi-amp Bosch replaments that are far superior to the French units. They ain't cheap though!

All Star: 425-867-1159
Dave Aase: 951-677-5003

RoninLB · 09-11-2005, 10:55 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Joeaksa

done by a "mom and pop" shop, which I trust a lot more than any chain.

so I walk into a local marine & truck starter/alt rebuilder because if he's doing marine there's no inexpensive way out with the parts. Then I ask him "what mfg of bearings do you use?" and he says "good Jap bearings". that's all he said and I didn't ask the name.

I'm still curious.

Eric Coffey · 09-12-2005, 12:24 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by RoninLB
so I walk into a local marine & truck starter/alt rebuilder because if he's doing marine there's no inexpensive way out with the parts. Then I ask him "what mfg of bearings do you use?" and he says "good Jap bearings". that's all he said and I didn't ask the name.

I'm still curious.

NSK?

michigan · 09-12-2005, 02:50 AM

I just recently had to replace my alternator. 77, 911, 2.7. I honestly feel that if you are going to do it, do it right. If you can, go ahead and get your old one rebuilt. If not, buy one from out host. I did that and he hooked me up with exactly the one that I had in it. It works fine. You don't want to have to go in there too often if you can help it. It is probably more a nuisance than anything else.

asphaltgambler · 09-12-2005, 06:11 AM

Bumpy

jlb911c · 09-12-2005, 07:59 AM

http://autoexpress.safeshopper.com/index.htm?274

Rebuilt my '86 for $100 including shipping. Replaced bearings, regulator and it comes with a 3 year guarantee.

I highly recommend them.

JB