Fitment questions?
Call (855) 786-7101 or text (801) 304-3141.
Real people. Real answers.
Product details
The EMPI 00-9488-0 is a black 90-plus-amp alternator conversion kit for the upright-fan Type 1 engine in air-cooled VWs, with an internally regulated alternator plus the stand, backing plates, pulley, strap, and belt needed to mount it. EMPI built the alternator around a new armature design and an internal voltage regulator, so there is no separate regulator to mount. EMPI says it runs cooler than dual-fan alternators and takes less horsepower to turn. The black finish suits a blacked-out engine bay, and the kit tops EMPI's 55-amp and 75-amp units.
The 90-amp kit makes sense when the car carries more load than stock, such as a big stereo or amplifier, high-output ignition, off-road lights, or other amp-hungry accessories. Because this kit supplies its own stand and three-piece backing plate set, it replaces the generator hardware outright, which matters on 1967 and later 12-volt cars where the stock generator stand cannot be reused. EMPI's chrome 90-plus-amp alternator (00-9463-7) is the alternator alone, without the mounting parts.
Technical Details
- Manufacturer: EMPI
- Manufacturer part number: 00-9488-0
- Output: 90+ amps (EMPI rating), 12 volt
- Regulator: Internal
- Finish: Black
- Kit includes: 90-amp alternator, alternator stand, 3-piece backing plate set, pulley, strap, and belt
- Ground requirement: Minimum 10-gauge wire from the alternator body to the alternator stand studs on the engine case
Fitment & Compatibility
For the Type 1 upright-fan engine in the 1961–1977 Beetle, 1971–1979 Super Beetle, 1961–1974 Karmann Ghia, Type 2 Bus through 1971, and 1973–1974 Thing. Cars from 1966 and earlier with 6-volt systems need the rest of the electrical system converted to 12 volts first. Cars with a generator or an externally regulated alternator need a small wiring change, since the regulator is built in.
Installation & Tuning Notes
EMPI requires a ground wire of at least 10 gauge from the alternator body to the alternator stand studs on the engine case. The D+ terminal must also connect to a small 12-volt, 2-watt incandescent warning lamp, or the generator light in a stock VW speedometer, to supply the excitation current the alternator needs to start charging. EMPI warns that with an LED or no light at all, it may not charge until revved, or may not charge reliably.
Common Questions
Does this fit a 1971 Super Beetle?
Yes. The 1971–1979 Super Beetle with the Type 1 upright-fan engine is within its fitment.
Do I still need my old voltage regulator?
No. The regulator is inside the alternator, so the external one comes out of the circuit.
Why is my new alternator not charging?
Check the D+ warning lamp circuit first. EMPI calls for a 12-volt, 2-watt incandescent lamp to excite the alternator.
PMB Performance can help with conversion wiring.
