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850 alternator -- OEM or not?

posted by  someone claiming to be Dan in NY on  Mon Jun 23 04:55 CST 2003 [RELATED]

Hello,

The alternator died on my 855 Turbo wagon. My mechanic (not a volvo dealer) is quoting me $467 for an OEM alternator or $398 for one from AutoZone. Both are rebuilt units -- what's the difference? I can save $70 here, and I would like to, but should I?

Need to get back to the mechanic ASAP -- thanks for quick advice!

Dan L.
'96 855T, 82,000 miles








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    850 alternator -- OEM or not?

    posted by  someone claiming to be Jack W. on  Mon Jun 23 16:53 CST 2003 [RELATED]

    Maybe you can just replace the brushes and the regulator. On my 240 I was able to pull the alternator and remove 2 screws and remove the regulator/brush holder. In most cases it is just a matter of worn brushes. The easiest thing is to replace this internal part (as long as the bearings spin freely and quietly). It takes all of 5 minutes to change out these parts. Take a little crocus cloth, polish the armature, screw in the new regulator, reinstall, and back on the road for less than 100 bucks. I've never done the repair in the 850 but the alternator should have the same configuration as the 240...I'm sure if I'm wrong someone will post for sure !!!
    Good luck,
    Jack W.
    PS...another alternative is a boneyard crash victim.
    If the part looks relatively new and clean you might just luck out and save some cash that way !!!








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    850 alternator -- OEM or not?

    posted by  someone claiming to be Frank on  Mon Jun 23 06:29 CST 2003 [RELATED]

    I'd spend the extra cash and go OEM. Better quality, better warranty (1 yr, unlimited miles).
    If the cheaper unit fails soon after its warranty expires (maybe 90 days?), you'll be re-spending the cash again, not to mention the hassle and maybe being stranded.







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