Oh definitely! I`ve replaced parts that could have lasted longer, but a couple hundred now might equal to several hundred later. Still kicking myself for not seeing the metal piece earlier, but it is what it is. I hate that the alternator technically was still good, but the bearing were feeling gritty. Only thing I could get locally was a reman, but it does have a lifetime warranty. I`m sure I`ll be able to do it faster next time...
I was able to "fix" the drivers side top hinge pin yet again yesterday. Only product I can find locally is Dorman and this time they didn`t have the exact part so I had to buy a bushing kit that is "universal" (Ford, Dodge, GM). Some bench grinder action on the pin and I made it work. It should last me till Spring where I can actually locate an AC Delco kit and take off the door for a proper fix. No pictures of this repair as it`s kinda ugly... I know it should be done right the first time, but it`s cold, windy, and I generally don`t feel like it right now. Heck just a couple weeks ago I let the dealer change the oil in the GTI, never thought I`d stoop to they level, but here we are, lol.