How to Remove Alternator / Lichtmaschine on VW T5 -T6

Here I show how to test the alternator when the red battery light appears on the dash and then replace the Alternator on a VW 2.0 T5.2 DSG Aircon Multivan. Step by step process.

[@liljasere]

Another common thing on these is they pop the alternator fuse for a variety of reasons so worth checking that first before buying a new one the fuse location is under the battery tray it’s a 225A mega fuse

[@YoucandoitwithJules]

Thanks for the great input. You can do it 👍

[@davem4131]

Got a new alternator and when doing other work I had the air box and engine mount off and when I jacked the engine higher I does look like it can come out the side also

[@YoucandoitwithJules]

Thanks for the feedback. You can do it 👍

[@davem4131]

Is the long threaded bit on the side just a locator pin?

[@YoucandoitwithJules]

Not sure which part you are talking about. Can you give me a minute stamp. You can do it 👍

[@jeanmichelbarbault3636]

I have the same to do tomorrow following a pole reversal by the customer, the maxi fuse blew but the alternator is no longer charging 😬 I hope I don't suffer too much to replace it 😆

[@YoucandoitwithJules]

It's actually a quick job the bit thats a PIA is getting the positive lead off the Stater motor if its been on there as long time. Let us know how you get on. You can do it.

[@jeanmichelbarbault3636]

@@YoucandoitwithJules thanks mate i succeed to remove him ✅️ now i have the New one to put it back^^ the hardest part i think 🥲😆

[@YoucandoitwithJules]

@@jeanmichelbarbault3636 Well done and don't chuck the old one out. I've a video in the making on how to refurb it back to new. What was it's problem? You can do it.

[@davem4131]

Wouldn’t be easier if you were to fully remove the power steering pump and replace at the same time?

[@YoucandoitwithJules]

Thanks for the feedback. Don't fully understand the suggestion. Removing the power steering pump totally would make not make it any easier as it just needs moving a bit and then it's not an issue. The main problem is the pipes from Aircon pump just get in the way. Once I made the decision to remove the coolant pipe it was easy. With the method I used you don't lose much coolant and if I were to do it again I'd have a piece of plugged tubing already set up to go over the lower coolant pump so it results in almost no fluid lost. The thermostat seals the outlet from the engine block so there's no issues. You can do it 👍

[@davem4131]

I am about to replace the PSP on a T6 and thought maybe while I’m at it I’ll do the alternator but there’s no charging issue yet just thought it’s done 60k and would rather it didn’t just fail on me. But I’ll wait I’ll leave it for now as can’t afford to throw parts at it for no reason 🤣

[@YoucandoitwithJules]

@@davem4131 Yes I wouldn’t replace the alternator yet as it low mileage save your money. Surprised the PSP is shot after 60k ? I am in the process of making a video on a ‘full service back to new’ for the alternator I took off. The main fault is the regulator or brushes on a high mileage alternator. In my case it was simply worn out brushes. You can do it 👍

[@davem4131]

@@YoucandoitwithJules I wouldn’t say it’s shot.m, but for the past few months I keep getting judder/vibrations when turning the wheel stationary and low speeds. Seems to get better when it’s warmed up or you apply revs then turn the week. I am lowered on 20” wheels so may be the cause of it wearing out faster?

[@davem4131]

I’m not sure what else it could be other than the rack. I’ve had suspension bushings replaced recently and alternator pulley and tensioner. Maybe a tie rod ball joint seizing up?

[@davem4131]

Easy remove ha! Pain in the ass removal but possible!

[@YoucandoitwithJules]

Trust me it's easy when you know what to take off and that it's actually possible. Next one would take max 2 hours. You can do it 👍