Alternator compatability

[Jean]

I took the old alternator from my car to Autozone to test it and it started making bad bearing noises but passed electrically.

Will an alternator from any e30 fit, for example will one from a 325i fit or do I have to look for an exact model/year ? I looked at the 87 325i alternator today and it looks almost the same but doesn't have the rubber bushings where it mounts to the engine like on the 318i alternator. I had them do a cross check and they said 84-86 325e and even some 5 series alternators will work but I don't know how accurate this information is.

Thanks.

[southsails]

Ever figure the alternator out?

Funny that I found this thread (as well) while trying to figure out an alternator. The eta I'm picking up is an 11/85 build, so I'm guessing it uses the Bosch 80amp alternator. There are quite a few models, and any help in narrowing the alternator down would be greatly appreciated.

[Jean]

the 325e and some 5series alternators will fit, I ended up buying one from a local recycler with warranty for now instead of buying a new one .

[southsails]

Righton. Thanks for the info. I am going sans-alternator for the the trip, and hoping it shouldn't be too much of a problem. NAPA didn't have one in my area.