The TDI alternator is Bosch 120 A and is way better than the old one. The connectors that exist are B+, D+ and DF. DF is connected to the regulator on old alternators, but on these newer thingys they are a signal for the engine ECU. The only sockets that must be connected are B+ (of course) and D+ (goes to the charge warning light).
But hang on - the tachometer W connector is missing! Yes, because TDI'ed cars gets the tacho signal from a sensor at the third diesel injector.
This is easily solved though. At the back panel of the alternator there are six connections spread around the edge, each connection is a clamp with two copper wires (you can see it through the vent hole on one of the pictures). That is a W tap!
I removed the plastic cover, cleaned one of the points and soldered a cable right on to it. The tachometer is moving as expected again.
A big thanks to Adam at Frej Bildelar who sorted the wiring out for me. He's the king of car electrics!
Hi, great site and source of info.
SvaraRaderaI've used your tip/ide on my vanagon. I was however wondering if know how accurate the thaco is after the mod? Have you calibrated the thaco in any way?
Best regards from Norway
Here are a link to my car on youtube if you are interested.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1oCYONeR7_o
Good that someone can use the info. :)
RaderaOn the backside of the tachometer there should be an adjustment screw. I haven't put any energy in fixing the RPM on the tacho, I've done new back panels for both the tacho and speed instead.