Alternator issues in a 93 passat

[Henchman]

Hi all,

My alternator appears to no longer be working.  I disconnect the cable from it and take a reading and 0v register.  Now before I get a rebuild, is there anything I can do to make sure it's really dead?  I seem to remember reading something on here about the alternator not working until you reach certain rpm.

As well, it should be known that it has been acting up the last couple of months, when I hit hard bumps it might kick out for a few seconds/minute then come back.  It finally died after I had a small wiring fire in the engine bay this morning.  Nothing major, but I had to reconnect a few wires and put tape on most.  Was the bundle that had all temp sensors, lift pump wires and blue/red wire leading from alternator.

Any ideas?  Rebuilds from Canadian Tire are $300.

Thanks,

Ian

[Henchman]

Also, are rebuild kits available for this alternator and has anyone done one?

Thanks,

Ian

[Possum79]

http://vwdiesel.net/phpBB/viewtopic.php?t=14607&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=0

Page three has great little write up with pics of his alternator rebuild.

[Henchman]

Bump?

[trent77]

I have always found that if the bearings seem good, then I just replace the brush pack. This also has the voltage reg. built into it. There are only 2 screws, and I didn't even have to remove the alt. Also, it costs about 50-60$ U.S.   Good luck.
Trent