EMPI 55-Amp Alternator Conversion Kit — Black, Complete with Bracket | VW Type 1 12V (00-9486-0)
SKU: 15508183137

EMPI 55-Amp Alternator Conversion Kit — Black, Complete with Bracket | VW Type 1 12V (00-9486-0)

Sale price$108.00 Regular price$120.00
Save 10%

Shipping Estimate
USA
  • USA
  • CAN

Ships within 48 hours · Estimated delivery Jul 9 - Jul 14

Promo Codes Available:

For Your Every Summer RSVP, with Code: SUMMER15

Description

EMPI 55-Amp Alternator Conversion Kit — Black, Complete with Bracket | VW Type 1 12V (00-9486-0)Complete EMPI 12V 55 amp alternator conversion kit black finish, internal voltage regulator, all new components. Everything you need to replace a tired factory VW generator with a modern alternator on Type 1 air cooled engines. EMPI part #00 9486 0. The standard upgrade for any 12V Beetle, Karmann Ghia, Type 3, or Bus running modern accessories. Why a complete conversion kit (not just the alternator) Going from generator to alternator on an air cooled

Complete EMPI 12V 55-amp alternator conversion kit — black finish, internal voltage regulator, all-new components. Everything you need to replace a tired factory VW generator with a modern alternator on Type 1 air-cooled engines. EMPI part #00-9486-0. The standard upgrade for any 12V Beetle, Karmann Ghia, Type 3, or Bus running modern accessories.

Why a complete conversion kit (not just the alternator)

Going from generator to alternator on an air-cooled VW isn't just a part swap. The alternator mounts differently than the generator and requires a conversion bracket to bolt up correctly. The complete kit gives you the alternator plus the bracket and any other adapter hardware needed for direct installation — no chasing down parts mid-install.

The internal voltage regulator eliminates the external regulator box on the firewall, simplifying wiring and removing a common failure point. EMPI builds these with all-new components rather than rebuilt cores, which matters significantly — rebuilt alternators are a frequent source of premature failure in the air-cooled VW world.

Specifications

  • Voltage: 12 volts
  • Output: 55 amps
  • Regulator: Internal
  • Finish: Black
  • Kit contents: Alternator + conversion bracket + mounting hardware
  • Construction: All-new components, not rebuilt
  • Part number: 00-9486-0 (EMPI), also stocked under Washburn's #E41

Fitment

  • VW Type 1 air-cooled engines (Beetle, Karmann Ghia, Type 3, Thing)
  • VW Type 2 Bus through 1971 (Type 1 engine)
  • Cars converted from 6V to 12V

Will NOT fit: Stock 6V applications without converting the entire electrical system. Will not fit Type 4 engines (different mounting geometry — 1972+ Bus, 411, 412, Porsche 914 use a different conversion).

FAQ

What's the difference between this kit and #00-9486-7?
#00-9486-7 is the alternator only. This kit (#00-9486-0) includes the conversion bracket and hardware you need to bolt it to your engine. If your existing engine already has the alternator-style bracket installed, you can save by buying the alternator only. If you're converting from generator for the first time, get the complete kit.

How long does the install take?
For someone comfortable with basic auto electrical: 1–2 hours. Remove the generator and its wiring, install the bracket, mount the alternator, connect the wiring, run the fan belt. Test the charging system before driving.

Do I need to remove the old voltage regulator?
Yes. The external regulator on the firewall is no longer needed — the alternator regulates internally. Disconnect and remove or bypass it.

Will my factory ammeter still work?
With proper wiring, yes. The alternator output can route through the original ammeter circuit. Some installations route the high-amperage charging line directly to the battery and use a voltmeter instead — your choice based on your specific gauges.

What size fan belt do I need?
The fan belt size depends on the specific alternator pulley diameter and your fan pulley. Most installations use the standard VW air-cooled fan belt; some performance pulley combinations require a slightly different size. Check the belt fit after installation.

Will this charge a discharged battery faster than my generator?
Yes, significantly. Generators produce very little charge at idle and only modest charge at cruise. Alternators produce useful current at idle and full output at moderate RPMs.

Shipping Notes
  • Free Standard Shipping on $100+ Orders to the USA.
  • Except Preorder products are shipped in 48 hours.
  • Delivery to the USA:
  1. Standard Shipping : 3-10 business days
  • If time is of the essence, please consider selecting expedited delivery for faster service.
Exchange/Return Notes
  • We offer a 30-day return/exchange service after receiving.
  • Final sale items are not eligible for returns or exchanges.
  • To process your return/exchange, please contact us at [email protected]
  • Please click here for more details>>> Return & Exchange Policy
SKU: 15508183137

Discover Niche Categories That Outsell

Top-Converting Item to Boost Your Average Order

4.3 ★★★★★
Based on 1893 reviews
Sort
Highest Rating
Newest First
Oldest First
Product Reviews
E
Verified Purchase
effie
Dallas, US
★★★★★ 5
Squeaky
Size: 8, Color: Black
They look incredible. But they're a little squeaky. Otherwise my husband loves the comfort. They go with any outfit
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on May 11, 2026
B
Verified Purchase
Boito
Boise, US
★★★★★ 5
These fit very nicely, are comfortable, and work for my wide feet!
Size: 12 Wide, Color: Brown
Once I learned while shoe shopping in my youth that I needed wide-sized shoes, I wasn't able to easily choose from any shoes I saw in the store. I usually have to go find the wide widths and have to deal with the limited styles they have. Shopping online has been hit and miss, too. Sometimes, shoes are advertised as wide width, but end up still being too narrow. These shoes fit me just right. They were not too tight at the toes, gave good width at the arch, and the opening was large enough that I didn't have to undo every single lace just to get my foot in. They also look nice, and I'm sure will take a decent polish. Also, note that this does say it's an Oxford shoe, but it does have the open lacing and is more of a derby-style shoe. This also helps with sizing for my wide feet. If I didn't already have a pair of black shoes, I'd look at picking one of these up. My only reservation with these is that the soles are not dark-colored to complement a more formal style. I feel the white makes them a little more casual. The sole is also more transparent/opaque coloring at the heel and underneath, which you can kind of see-through, so keep that in mind. It's not fully clear, but is kind of transparent, which I was not expecting. I think it also shows where it picks up dirt as you wear it. Just more of a style cue one way or another. As a reference, I buy the 4E wide and Extra Wides in New Balance and Skechers. I also have a hard time getting any good fit in Nike shoes.
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on October 2, 2023
M
Verified Purchase
Michelle sealock
Draper, US
★★★★★ 5
Looks and feel good
Size: 10.5, Color: Black
Shoes look dressy but feel comfortable. They are stiff but very comfortable.
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on June 8, 2026
R
Verified Purchase
Riley H.
Lowell, US
★★★★★ 5
Well made and affordable
Size: 10.5, Color: Brown
Very comfortable, great price!!!!!!
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on April 30, 2026
G
Verified Purchase
George M. Occhipinti
Lexington, US
★★★★★ 5
Very handsome shoe
Size: 7, Color: Brown
Beautifully made shoe. Comfortable, great fit. Very handsome on foot. Can wear with anything. Very pleased
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on April 18, 2026

recommand products