Alternator amp-age?

[icerew]

Im in the process of replacing my alternator for a 2.1 TD 12v 1998 model 406 saloon. Iv just been asked what ampage i require? Does it need to be an accurate amp-age for the car or can i get away with running any?

[swiss]

I seem to remember mine being 80 amp, though when I went to replace it the local peddlars started at 100 and went up from there.

[icerew]

That's good to know, so I'm not limited to one size.

[swiss]

No, it's a case of capacity. Your car will draw so much current, just make sure the alt you put in can handle it and you'll be fine - do check with a reliable source what your min capacity should be though, no idea where I got my figure of 80A from...

Ultimately I go on Ebay and bought one from an identical car being broken. Cost me 30 squids including postage, which was far more palatable than the 100+ the local refurb-o-mats wanted.