I am bringing my 200k 83 SD back to reliable every day car condition. I have done a lot of work on the engine and am now wondering if I should replace the starter and alternator. I have the turbo and manifolds off right now so the starter is right there. How long do these units usually last? This one has gone through many hard winter starts. I have a new voltage regulator for the alternator but now I am wonder how long I can expect the bearings and communtator to last. Thanks in advance.

-Justin Lewis

Coultl,

If alternator and starter are working OK , leave them alone. If it ain't broke, don't fix it.

My alternator and starter are 23 years old and 244,000+ miles but they are both working good so I will not touch them until something goes wrong with either. You might get a bad rebuilt that will give you more trouble than what you have now.

However, since it is so easy to get the starter off now, I would take it apart, clean it and check the brushes. If they are half worn out, replace them.

P E H

My general rule is to not do them if they are not showing symptoms. However, if you are in location, the starter is 10x easier. What a pain for both of them otherwise. I've done both on the same car, while the other 4 have not given me problems.

Don

__________________
DAILY DRIVERS:
'84 300DT 298k (Aubrey's)
'99.5 Jetta TDI IV 251k (Julie's)
'97 Jetta TDI 127k (Amber's)
'97 Jetta TDI 186k (Matt's)
'96 Passat TDI 237k (Don's
'84 300D 211k Mint (Arne- Undergoing Greasecar Conversion)

SOLD:
'82 240D 229k (Matt's - Converted-300DT w/ 4 speed

How can I find a bosch repair shops? I want to call local shops and see prices but I have no idea how to find them. Anyone have a good one in CT. Thanks.

Not sure that I agree about leaving the alternator alone. The brushes on it are so easy to replace that if it has an unknown history or if you know that they are nearing 150,000 miles or so, I'd replace them. Ten minutes and under $40. At least take a look at them.

Len