How to Identify Type of Alternator?

[paul_gtimk2]

I have a 1990 Mk2 8v GTI.  The outer half of the alternator pulley has corroded and fallen off thus needs replacing.  Speaking to the local VW dealer reveals there is a possible 3 choices of pulley.  2 are Valeo alternators and one is for a Bosch.  The sticker identifying my alternator has long since fallen off.  How can I tell which type I have?  The car does not have A/C, power steering, or electric windows so the alternator rating would be on the lower side.
Any help much appreciated. 

[Organisys]

You should have a 65A alternator. If it looks like it could be the original one, it should be a Bosch.

[paul_gtimk2]

You should have a 65A alternator. If it looks like it could be the original one, it should be a Bosch.

Thanks for the reply.  The problem is the VW dealers do not stock these parts any more so will only order them if I pay up-front.  This will get expensive if I order the wrong pulley.

I have taken a couple of photos of the alternator and hopefully a definite identification can be made.  I will go for the 65 Amp rating but these are made by both Bosch and Valeo.

How do I upload the photos?  I do not have a website of my own – is there a free one I can use?

Cheers.

[Organisys]

Try www.photobucket.com

[paul_gtimk2]

Try www.photobucket.com

Superb link, thanks.

Pictures of the alternator can be found here:

http://s174.photobucket.com/albums/w120/paulgtimk2/

Which make do you reckon?

Cheers, Paul

[alexluxurywheels]

i'd say thats a bosch, i had that one on my '91 mk1 cab.
but i upgraded to a 90amp. if you gotta change it anyway, may aswell upgrade it.
starts quicker.... and generally just seems like alot less strain on the battery on tickover.

i've seen a couple on ebay today used ones....
this one for example
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/VW-GOLF-MK2-GTI-1990-ALTERNATOR_W0QQitemZ170080182373QQihZ007QQcategoryZ9889QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

[cняis]

Paul, you seem to have a leak from plug no. 1?

I have the same problem but i dont know what causes it.

[Organisys]

If you do buy a used one make sure it's a Bosch one, I bought a almost new cheap copy from ebay a few weeks back and it has packed up already!

[paul_gtimk2]

Paul, you seem to have a leak from plug no. 1?

I have the same problem but i dont know what causes it.

Yeah, looking at the photos I am a bit ashamed  :embarassed:  I have had the car since new and it has now done a fraction under 234,000 miles.  Same engine, same gearbox, just needed a new cylinder head gasket and a skim 18 months ago.  Goes like dream with just a few battle scars.  Hardly burns any oil.

One of the plugs always seems seems to be leaking.  A few weeks ago I took a wire brush to the plugs and torqued them all back up.  The plug you see now started leaking.  Always been a bit apprehensive about cleaning the engine bay - when the car has done that many miles and is running so good I feel it is best left alone 

Ordered a Bosch 65 Amp pulley and will fit it Friday night (I hope).

Cheers to you all.