Things You'll Need:
- Box end wrench (size will vary depending on the make and model of your car)
- Ratchet with appropriate size socket
- Cresent wrench
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Step 1
The first thing you need to do is determine that the problem is actually being caused by the alternator, because if you're anything like me, it's always best to do the least amount of work possible. Disconnect the negative battery terminal before doing any electrical work on your vehicle unless you like pissing your pants and have always wanted to try the "Don King" look, but never had the guts.
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Step 2
Once you have determined that the alternator is the likely culprit for your headlights dimming everytime the bass hits while jammin' to Rump Shaker, you will need to locate the alternator in your specific car (under the hood is likely in most cases). Sometimes it will be in plain sight, but there are some vehicles which require some searching. An automotive manual for your car is always handy.
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Step 3
Once you have located your alternator, the first thing you will need to do is remove the serpentine belt from the alternator pully.
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Step 4
Next, disconnect the ground cable, then hot wire from the alternator.
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Step 5
Once all of the wires have been diconnected, there should be two mounting bolts (one on the top and one on the bottom). Loosen and remove these and the alternator should drop right out. It's usually a good idea to take your alternator into your local automotive supply store to have it tested (most will do this for free). This will either give you assurance that you have correctly diagnosed the problem, or crush your spirit because it will be verified that there is a larger issue with your car than you thought.
Comments
kimlh said
on 3/16/2009 Does the brand make a difference? I see a price range difference of about $100 and wonder if it really matters which brand alternator to use? Thanks
gdiaz81 said
on 5/30/2008 thanks for the info bro
gdiaz81 said
on 5/30/2008 thanx for explaining thorough for us slow ones, or shall i say new ones to auto repair thanks, bro!
gdiaz81 said
on 5/30/2008 thanx for explaining thorough for us slow ones, or shall i say new ones to auto repair thanks, bro!
matt.reichert said
on 3/27/2007 couple more things... for step 3, there will either be a belt tension setup or your alternator itself will have the top bolt going through a curved metal slide tensioner. You will need to loosen this bolt to get the belt to come off. It's very important that when you put it back on, you get the belt tight, but not too tight. This will take some effort to do. The alternator will swing on the lower bolt (don't tighten it all the way until you do this) and slide in the curved metal piece. You will have to push the alternator until the belt seems at a good tension. Then hold it there while you ratchet the bolt tight. Get it really tight, but don't strip it. Then tighten the bottom bolt good. Once you are finished, fire up your car and make sure the belt isn't too tight. DON'T TOUCH IT WHILE IT'S RUNNING THOUGH!
For step 4, the ground cable is usually a screw and the hot wire clips in/out.
Whatever you do, don't accidentally cross your battery terminals with your wrench. That could result in a lot of problems.
Lastly, any good auto parts store WILL test your alternator for free... even if you're sure that the alternator is the problem, take it with you when you get the new one. They will take lot of money off the price of the new one for giving them the old core. (core charge) Also, just get a rebuilt one... they are just as good as the new ones and are cheaper.