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Pulley vs freewheel on alternator?

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alternator alternator belt freewheel pulley
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2K views 1 reply 2 participants last post by  rc_tech  
#1 · (Edited)
I have a normal pulley on the 120A alternator, and thinking to replace it to the freewheel, as some people say it will be better for the motor/alternator.
But didn't find much about it.

Any thoughts?

Possible negative sides: 1 more part that can wear and need to be replaced (vs normal pulley that looks more reliable because it's solid).

Anyone who upgraded it?

Here is some information from t4wiki

Lichtmaschine – T4-Wiki

t4-wiki.de t4-wiki.de

Image



PS: Because my alternator was replaced before I got the car, I don't know if there was a freewheel before and if it was downgraded.
But ETKA says there is a normal pulley on stock alternator (120A, 2.5 TDI AXL engine)
 
#2 ·
I swapped mine out on my 90A alternator in the infinite quest for engine smoothness. Despite being a diddy thing compared to the 120A or the 150A jobs it did noticeably smooth out the sounds and vibrations at idle.

I'd personally recommend it for the extended belt life and less chance of slippage when the air is moist, also less stress on the crank pulley which is always good. As for reliability if you get an INA made pulley or other reputable bearing manufacturer it will last you at least 100,000 miles easily.
 
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