Well it looks like the alternator's given up. Batteries not charging and the light's come up on the dash. Does anyone know where I can get a reconditioned one for a good price or if there's anything else I should check before I order it? Cheers all
Ebay is generally a good shout mate, and most come with waranty. http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/RY2165-Altern...arts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM&hash=item1c1080fca6
Also, if you have a multi-meter, check the voltage across the battery terminals with the engine running. It should be 13 or more.
It's easy mate - Slacken the belt, two bolts the remove. See this: http://forums.vwvortex.com/showthread.php?2553076
Ok so it's definitely the battery. Multimeter was reading 12.5v before I started the car and 12 with the appliances on and revving to 2k. Question now is, will a fully charged battery get me the 45 miles needed to get it to my parents where all the tools are?! :-s
Do you means it's definitely the alternator? Charging at 12 Volts is the alternator matey, as it's not really charging at all. Speaking from experience, it should last you 45 miles as long as fully charged.... No electrics on!!
Yeah I meant alternator hehe. I shall use natures air conditioning and hope I don't get stuck in traffic!
My advice is take fuses out of systems you don't need.... I managed 120 miles on 1 battery with a shagged alternator at night.... Scary, was on the motorway going as fast as poss with just front fogs on.
