independent shop quoted me $570.00 for parts an labor....seems steep to me....said 2 hours labor....@ $90/hr that would be a $390 alternator?!

maybe i'm the crazy one?

Rockauto has units anywhere from $120 - 278.

I've heard that its a major PITA to remove and replace. I have an alternator (Hitachi Rebuilt) sitting in my garage waiting for my current alternator to puke, but so far its been rock solid. 260k km and keeps going!

I got the Hitachi for free from a buddy in the business a couple years ago.

It's not that bad a price depending on the quality of the alternator. Having worked 16 years as a Nissan tech, I'm reluctant to use anything on the aftermarket when it comes to alternators, starters, distributors, ignition system parts and fuel pumps. The job is hard enough to replace an alternator so you don't want to have to do it twice. There were several different alternators used on the R51s and they can range from $335 up to almost $500 for a genuine Nissan reman, but these are by far the highest quality units available. Nissan alternators are Hitachi units, so if you can find a Hitachi alternator on the aftermarket, that would be a good option. Of those listed at Rockauto.com, I would have the most confidence in the Remy remanufactured unit. Another option would be to have a competent auto electrical specialist rebuild your original unit, if there is a good auto electric shop or specialist in your area.

martyf250 wrote:independent shop quoted me $570.00 for parts an labor....seems steep to me....said 2 hours labor....@ $90/hr that would be a $390 alternator?!

maybe i'm the crazy one?

so is the alternator the problem then?

my buddy is coming with his voltmeter tonight to test. should tell the tale hopefully. everything else i have found online and in the forums leads to alternator

could i put a 130 amp alternator in when my XE model has the 110 amp alternator?

Yes. Could be handy if you decide to go with efans or a big stereo. Overkill otherwise.