Standard Alternator 55 amp

Good morning,

I need to replace the alternator on my Mk1 Golf GTI Cabrio,  1.8i DX engine,   My mate has one that he says came off a 1.8 mk1 which is 55 amp,  is this enough for a standard car?

There are no additional electrics on the car, other than electric windows.

Many Thanks
Wilson

Replace like for like & you'll have no issues

Cero said

Replace like for like & you'll have no issues

Hi Cero,   That's what I want to do,  sorry what I meant is,  it looks the same but is the standard one for my car a 55 amp?

Sorry no idea, some of those cabs came with 90amp fitted, is there no label on yours ? Other option would be is to fit the 55 and get your own re-furbished

Yeah that's an idea,  No, I looked there is a label on mine but it is completely worn,  the picture he sent me looks exactly the same fittings,  just 55 seems low to me (with my limited electrical knowledge)
I guess it might be right though being an old car with virtually no extra electrics, I just cant find anything to confirm it!

What year is your car? That will help us to find whats fitted...

55 is standard output on a Gti - electric windows when used may take say another 10 amps probably taking it up to its maximum with 'everything' switched on, at that point you'll probably see a battery discharge on - I think 55 will be fine just don't run everything at once

its an 89 Cabriolet, 1.8i GTI,  completely standard

Cero said

55 is standard output on a Gti - electric windows when used may take say another 10 amps probably taking it up to its maximum with 'everything' switched on, at that point you'll probably see a battery discharge on - I think 55 will be fine just don't run everything at once

Excellent thanks Cero,  I'll give it a go

My 1988 GTi cabriolet has a standard 55amp alternator fitted, so you should be fine with one on your car, I don't have electric windows or roof.
just check you don't have a large battery fitted, I use one like this, (063)
http://www.eurocarparts.com/ecp/p/accessories-car-batteries/car-batteries/most-popular-car-battery/063-car-batteries/?444770635&0&cc5_993

Hi, i have exactly the same problem. need new alternator but have no idea what size i need for the car. no labels because its a bit crusty to say the least. i have mk1 1989 VW cabriolet. No electric widows, manual softop, does have power steering and AC though. any ideas what size i need?  

89's didn't have factory electric windows, so if you have them then they are add on not oem.

on my 90, 92, and 93 I have 90A.

Thanks Briano1234. No I don't have electric windows. Will look into getting a 90A alternator.