Volkswagen Repair: quick question about car cutting off, windshield wipers, electrical component

Question
First, thanks for the service.  I'll keep this brief.  1990 Jetta GL / 217K miles.

Car started up no problem - very quick start.  Drove about 20 miles and noticed the interior lights beginning to dim.  The radio got weak.  The gas and temp gauge went all the way down. The headlights were dim (notice when i got out of the car).  If i stepped on the brake, the car would appear to get weaker.  Once i arrived at destination and parked, the car completely cut off and would not restart.  Trying to restart, the car just made a 'clicking' sound.  Next day (today)i jump the car.  Let it run for about 1 minute.  remove the cables and was able to start the car several times with no problem.  Appears very strong.  strats within two seconds. Am i dealing with an alternator issue?  Can i drive back home (40 miles) without the car dying?

Thanks much  

Answer
It definitely sounds like your alternator is bad. To be sure you need to check the alt and battery  with a volt meter. How far you can go like this depends on how much juice is in your battery. Just by a new battery and some tools to change it and if the car dies put a new battery in. Remember, lights, windshield wipers and any other electrical component draw juice from the system. If you want to make it the 40 miles, turn off all unnecessary electrical systems.