clipper777

Had the water pump and thermostat housing replaced on my 07 A8L w/4.2 FSI. Ate 2 belts so far. Mechanic sez alternator warms up to engine temp but gets super hot(literally melts the belt) when the belt is attached. He thinks the alternator is toast. I'm inclined to agree, just don't want to keep replacing things till my credit card melts. Any ideas? Thanks.

Mister Bally

The coolant pipes are connected to the alternator, correct? It is water cooled, you will notice that is has no "fan blades"..And you have verified that coolant is flowing through those pies as well, yes?

Giovanni Giovino 6.0+6.0TT

What Mr. Bally said, plus a but, does the alternator spin freely, or is it seizing up and eating the belt ?

clipper777

That was my first thought, although I haven't verified they are connected the were not removed for the pump replacement to my knowledge. I'll certainly ask first thing in the AM, as for the coolant flow, how would you test that? Thanks much for your reply

clipper777

We'll remove the alternator first Beginning to suspect a bad bearing in the alternator. I'll let everyone know what we find out. Thanks for the reply