Is an alternator easy to replace?
Introduction: How-To: Replace an Alternator Replacing an alternator can cost you several hundred bucks at the local repair shop, but it’s one of the simplest repairs you can do at home. With a few tools and about an hour you can swap it out yourself — and keep your dough in your pocket where it belongs.
What else should I replace when replacing alternator?
When replacing and alternator, other upgrades are worth doing too. Go ahead and change the serpentine belt, tensioner and idler roller when replacing an alternator on your car or truck.
Can I spray my alternator with water?
You certainly can clean your alternator with water if you don’t pressure wash it directly. Gently pour/spray the water and soap mix on the alternator terminals and brushes. Let the soap work its magic for 5 minutes. Gently scrub the dirty areas with a wire brush.
How can I tell if I need to replace my alternator?
Once the electrical connections, drive belt and any interference items are inspected, disconnected and removed, the old alternator can be unbolted from the engine and mounting brackets. Match it Up! Compare the old alternator to the replacement alternator.
How does an alternator mount on an engine?
On older motors with individual accessory belts, the alternator mounting bracket is designed to allow the alternator to slide away from the belt to release tension after anchoring bolts are loosened. Shown here is an older engine with an alternator that can be loosened and slid within its bracket in order to adjust belt tension.
Can a manual tensioner be used to replace an alternator?
The belt tensioner will only travel (swing) so far which can make installing the belt difficult. Never pry or force the belt onto the pulley. Vehicles with a manual tensioner or the belt tightens with the alternator, there should about ½ inch of deflection in the belt between the pulleys with the greatest distance between them. 7
How many bolts do you need to replace an alternator?
You should also be able to remove these bolts with a basic socket set as most engine bay bolts are going to range from a 9 to 12. Once you have the bolts removed from the old alternator you would want to put them in a safe spot so you can reinstall them later.