Win an M3 alternator work in my 325i?

[Pink_Floyd]

I can get a good used alternator from a 98 M3 - will it be a perfect direct replacement for my 1992 325i? Thanks!

 

[frolf]

check part numbers. i'd say maybe, leaning toward no, if it were a 95 m3 i'd lean toward yes.

 

[Tom]

I think it will fit. Take a look at the part number BW-12-31-1-744-567.
http://www.pelicanparts.com/bmw/catalog/shopcart/BE36/POR_BE36_electr_pg1.htm#item2

However when it comes to electrical items, I'm very wearing about purchasing used unless there's a warranty.

 

[Pink_Floyd]

Thanks for the replies guys! The guy who was selling it gave me the part number which was 12-31-1-744-561. On pelicanparts they had that item listed as "Alternator 80 Amp Valeo (Rebuilt), 325i/is/iC (1992-95) BW-12-31-1-744-561 $169.75." So I went ahead and bought the used one. I'll let you guys know how the installation goes and maybe I'll even write up a tutorial with some pictures. Thanks again!

 

[Tom]

Cool keep us posted Jeff and a How-To would be awesome.

 

[flyinH]

if you have a valeo, you need another valeo. if you have a bosch, you need another bosch. although you can go from the stock 80amp to 140amp with no problems as long as you stay with the same mfg.

 

[Pink_Floyd]

OK - so I replaced the alternator and everything works really really great now and I also got a chance to change the oil while it was up on the jack stands. Anyway, the used alternator I purchased was out of a 1998 M3 and was a Valeo. The alternator that I had in my car was a much different looking Bosch one but the Valeo works fine, despite switching manufactures. The only minor problem was that the Valeo had an integrated nut in the alternator housing and the bosch had a freestanding nut that was on the outside of the alternator housing. In order to get the bolt to work I had to drill out the threads on the new Valeo so the bolt would go all the way through and I could use the original nut, but other than that, it was a direct replacement. I drove over 100 miles today and the electrical system works perfectly. I was not, however, able to write up a "how-to" article, being as I really had no idea what I was doing. I can always get the work done on my car but not necessarily in an orderly or timely manner. If I ever have to do anything for a second time though, I will be sure to write up on how to get it done. Thanks for all the help!