Replace dynamo or alternator conversion?

[Shoddy]

Hi Guys,

Bus went in for service and mot today. Seems the dynamo is pretty much shot. I did wonder what the latest rattle was!

Not been down to see my master mechanic yet but he has suggested alternator conversion. What are people's thoughts on just replacing the dynamo vs going down the alternator route? I've just a stock 1600 in a microbus. Plans are to add some kind of stereo and possible power outlet inside as we put in a fresh interior. But no major drain to elec's.

Cheers
Craig

 

[BRAD]

Alternator conversion every time, and the biggest best quality one you can afford, don't buy a cheap **** small one 8)

 

[georgeyv]

If you've got the brass, go for an alternator conversion. If you want to get it sorted on the cheap, replace the dynamo.

I've just done the alternator swap, but I had a spare from an old engine so didn't have to fork out thankfully!

 

[Peter Good]

Personally, it has to be a dynamo. For more reliable (with minimal maintenance) and robust than an alternator. Unless there really is a need for higher output than a dynamo can offer. If it is an alternator, then i would advise against going above 55Amp output again unless it is really necessary.
Peter Good

 

[Shoddy]

Any ideas where I can source a quality item of either?!

Cheers
Craig

 

[AxlFoley]

I bought mine from GSF it was a reconditioned Bosch one with a built in regulator.

 

[mike202]

I decided to go for a Bosch 55amp alternator when I had problems with the old dynamo. The bearings were worn. I am sure a good recon dynamo would be ok as a replacement generally, but I have a stereo and a leisure battery so opted for the alternator. I don't think it is very easy to get a 38amp bus dynamo.

You also don't need the old voltage regulator as new alternators have them built in.

I have to say I like sound of the engine with the alternator when shutting down, and it is a lot quiter when running.

 

[Shoddy]

Hi mike.....where did you get your bosh alternator from? I'm more inclined to go down the alternator route but can't find any bosh anywhere.

 

[mike202]

I got the conversion kit from VWH.

 

[Happystamps]

I've done both- The beetle (daily, heavy use) has a dynamo in it... When it finally packed in I couldn't afford to upgrade, a fella offered me a dynamo for free (two people did, actually) and I had to get to work, so I fixed it with the free dynamo. Which has been in there for another 20,000 miles without a single issue, so what's the problem

The bus has an alternator, because I found one for a good price. It'll come in handy for when I'm running the heater in winter I suppose.

TBH, if you've not got a lot of electrical toys, you probably won't see a difference. But if you're planning to put some stuff in, the alternator will of course handle more. Just make sure you get a decent one, a lot of the high output alternators are cheap repro stuff.

 

[Shoddy]

I think it makes sense to switch to the alternator. Bus is a blank canvas at the mo inside and I'm sure we'll be adding at least a working stereo.

Even VWH don't have Bosch conversions..... I did stumble across a remark on google while searching that mentioned something about can't get hold of the Bosch items now. No choice but to take a gamble on the other offers. Only named one I've found is Empi, but not sure if they're any better than other generic offerings?!

Cheers.

 

[Happystamps]

I think it makes sense to switch to the alternator. Bus is a blank canvas at the mo inside and I'm sure we'll be adding at least a working stereo.

Even VWH don't have Bosch conversions..... I did stumble across a remark on google while searching that mentioned something about can't get hold of the Bosch items now. No choice but to take a gamble on the other offers. Only named one I've found is Empi, but not sure if they're any better than other generic offerings?!

Cheers.

The answer to your question, unfortunately, is no ;-) Whichever you go for, go for one that was fitted at the factory. OE used alternators are about.

 

[Happystamps]

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