No spark after alternator went?

My son has a 1986 gti w/ 8v 1.8l. The alternator went out and now it has no spark. we replaced the ignition module, coil, and distributor bnut none of thesse seem to fix the problem. Any suggestions? He did say that the lights got brighter just before it died. could the computer be bad. How sensative are these componants? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

Their must be someone out there with some input as this seems to be a fairly common problem.

Any more info on the condition of the vehicle? Sounds like it might just have kicked the can, what kind of miles are we talking here?

Any more info on the condition of the vehicle? Sounds like it might just have kicked the can, what kind of miles are we talking here?
The car is in OK shape w/ 120000 miles. I dont think it's gone because the only element we are missing is spark. (ie. good compression and fuel delivery. ) There has to be something simple that I have overlooked. Is there a hidden fuse some where? there is a thread in the jetta forum with the same symtoms and still no response to that one either. someone must have a clue. I am pulling my hair out with this one. thanks for your help

No spark? Have you tried new wiring? That is if you've purchased new Spark plugs and that hasn't helped, I'm not sure if it is possible but you may have blown the plugs because it sounds like a power surge. I honestly don't know what's wrong but that's what came to mind. If the compression is bad check the O-rings and gaskets, might have blown one.

Problem resolved. Turns out the Knock sensor control unit was bad. Replaced it and it fired right up.