TheSamba.com :: View topic - Converting generator to alternator

Sun May 13, 2012 10:26 pm

My Ghia is having generator problems, and I'm sick of replacing them, so I think I'm going to switch to an alternator. (In fact, once the charging is reliable, I'm selling the car if anyone is interested - need to figure out what it's worth with a recently rebuilt engine - San Francisco)

Anyways, I've seen a bunch of posts about generator->alternator conversions, and it looks like there are different kits with different requirements. It seems that some can just be dropped in with some simple rewiring (the Bosch alt?) and others need new mounts and other changes.

Is this correct? And if so, which alternator do I want to get?

I'm under the impression the Bosch alternator will drop-in with the current generator stand and is keyed on both ends (to run the fan as well) - am I right on this? Any suggestions for the simplest kit to drop-in?

Mon May 14, 2012 6:27 am

The Bosch AL82X is a good unit that has an internal requlator. It should include directions to modify your wiring accornding. You will need to change your generator stand to accomodate the larger diameter "face" of the alternator. You may have get carb adaptor too that offsets it slightly, again to accomodate the larger alternator. Fuel pumps have been in the way before too, but not always - depending on which one you have. Other than that, your pulley, strap, fan and engine tin should swap over from your generator just fine.

Good luck!

Mon May 14, 2012 2:06 pm

Excellent, thanks for the great info.

NWGhiaGuy wrote: You will need to change your generator stand

To what? Do I just order a later (alternator) stand for a Ghia, or can the stand be modified?

If the fuel pump is in the way, what can I do? And is there any way to tell?

Mon May 14, 2012 2:47 pm

if u buy a alternator conversion kit it will come with a stand, alternator, and the back plate that bolts on to the shroud. you can buy a new fuel pump that is correct for having a alternator (u will need to shorten the fuel pump rod).

Mon May 14, 2012 9:34 pm

I bought an alt. conversion kit with a non Bosch alt. nothing fit. extensive modification required to make everything fit right. Go with a Bosch if you can. I went to another vw parts store and saw same alt. base being sold there. It would have needed modification also.fan needed more shims than supplied in kit, bolt supplied for clamp too short.

Tue May 15, 2012 5:43 pm

You don't need to get a "Kit" get an AL 82X Alt and a used Alt stand and install it. As said before there is a Modification to the wiring but it is simple.