Do you have to loosen the V belt before replacing the alternator?
If you have a V-belt, the alternator must first be loosened before the V belt can be removed as the alternator provides belt tension. Install the new alternator, making sure that it fits properly and aligns with the existing bolt holes, by reversing the steps in the disassembly procedure.
How do you replace an alternator in a car?
Replacing the alternator can be accomplished with basic mechanic’s tools. Remove the drain plug located under the clutch area of the primary chaincase and drain the chaincase lubricant into a catch pan. Remove all mounting bolts from the primary cover and slide the cover from its locating studs.
Can a transverse bolt be used to move an alternator?
Some alternators will have a transverse bolt that allows you to move the alternator fore-and-aft in the bracket to adjust belt tension. If not, you may need to use a cheater to keep the alternator in place and take slack out of the belt (an assistant can help here) as you tighten the mounting bolts.
How to replace an alternator on a 1995 GMC?
Somewhere on your vehicle there is a tensioner pulley. You’ll need to move it enough to slip the belt off the pulley. Our ’95 GMC has a standard spring-loaded GM tensioner that required us to pull it back with a wrench.
Which is the best universal alternator for a car?
Alternator – Universal. The best universal alternators for cars and trucks work the existing motor to keep the engine running. The alternator powers the battery and must constantly run to continue to generate power and recharge the car’s battery. An efficient alternator requires less energy for its constant motion.
What do you need to replace an alternator in a car?
In addition to a replacement alternator, you’ll need some tools: 1 Hand tools like ratchets, sockets, and wrenches 2 Belt tensioner tool 3 Gloves and safety gear 4 Battery tender or memory saver, if necessary 5 Jack, jack stands, and wheel chocks, if necessary
When did alternators replace generators in early Chevys?
Among the most overlooked aspects of swapping late-model engines into early Chevys is upgrading the charging system. It was in the early ’60s when alternators replaced generators. Since then, a landslide of charging system and alternator enhancements have followed.
Can a three wire alternator be replaced by a single wire unit?
Age and repeated plugging and unplugging of the three-pronged plug can cause it to crack and make the spade connectors retreat out the back when you push the plug in. For all these reasons, a nice upgrade to a vintage car is to replace the externally-regulated three-wire alternator with a newer internally-regulated single-wire unit.