>Basically, I would like to know if there is anything else I can check
>before I spend the $200 for the 90 AMP alternator (beast) that I'll
>(probably) need.

Patrick,

Sure sounds like your alternator has given up.  Have you verified this by
checking voltage output?

I recently had a Bosch 90amp Vanagon alternator rebuilt at a local auto
electrical shop.  They bead blasted the case, painted the field plates
(correct term?) red, trued the slip rings (where the brushes contact the
armature), installed two new bearings and one bearing spacer, installed
new voltage regulator and brush assembly, reassembled and tested.  It
looks brand new, puts out about 14 volts, and has performed flawlessly
for about 1,000 miles now.

Total cost was $72 plus tax.  I am very pleased.

Check out local auto electrical shops in your area before spending the
big bucks.

Happy Holidaze!

Tony

Anthony L. Mourkas
Hampden, Maine, USA
1984 Vanagon Westfalia
1987 Vanagon GL Syncro
1991 Jetta Eco Diesel