120 amp or 140 amp Alternator replacement for my 1.4tdi AMF 2001

Morning and HNY all,

I need to replace my alternator and I’m not sure whether to go down the 120 amp or 140 amp route? My car has developed a squeal which has been around for since the summer. I had a go at replacing the INA pulley on the existing alternator but managed to shear off the inner nut in the process :(

I haven’t ruled out the noise may be coming from the cam belt pulleys which were replaced c 12 months ago. I did start the car without the aux belt in play and there is a little uncomfortable noise during turnover but not as loud as when the aux belt is turning over too.

I have also replaced the aux pulley tensioner to ensure that’s not the route cause of the noise - sadly not.

Cheers
 
Morning,

I couldn’t diagnose your squealing issue without a little more information. All I can say is try to understand what it is soonest to avoid any potential breakdown and costly repairs. It might be simple but get it checked out.

What I can advise on though is that choosing the higher rated alternator will no harm what so ever and your battery will enjoy the extra charge you give it. I too upgraded from a 120A to a 140A only last year on advice from Tom @timmus.

To change the alternator clutch you require a specific tool to lock the spindle and release the nut. Something like this is what I use:
10B0B56F-DC31-4E55-88E9-EAE2AC6E3510.jpeg

Which is available from all the usual places of purchase. There are places that will take your old alternator and refurbish it for you for lot cheaper than a replacement item. A quick internet search should show you who does this kind of thing near you.

Hope this helps.

Kind regards,

Tom
 
Thanks Tom. Embarrassingly I have the correct tool to remove the alternator clutch but I sheared the inner bolt whilst trying to remove it with an impact drill o_O
 
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