My local NAPA guy told me that he was informed that the 104.00 "Standard" NAPA alternators are only cleaned and repaired, not rebuilt.
"Premium" NAPA alternators for our Vanagons are completely rebuilt but are priced at over 200 bucks.

what he said,
Dan Hall
'86 Westy Weekender
"Das Boot"

  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Fredrich Hesterberg 
  To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM 
  Sent: Friday, July 25, 2003 10:57 PM
  Subject: Alternator Deal.

  I find the alternator dead on my 88 Westy last night.
  I call 4 places this morning.
  VW first.
  $489.00
  Foreign Car Parts Place
  $189.00 ( rebuilt Beck Arnley)
  A Local parts house
  $136.00 ( I do not know who rebuilt it )
  Finally NAPA
  $104.00 and a 3 year guarantee.

  I think this is good price, and like the warrantee, and had it this
  morning and put in Van.
  No mail order.
  No wait.
  No ship charges.
  It is a 90 amp alternator--I checked with meter.

  I figure why rebuild myself--no warrantee--and It took me half hour to
  pick up part and install.

  Good Evening,

  Fred