Removing the Alternator

• 1). Unhook the ground cable from the negative battery post by loosening the cable clamp retaining bolt using a wrench. Then twist the clamp off the post. Secure the cable so it won't slip into contact with the battery while you work.
  
  
• 2). Label the wires attached to the rear of the alternator using masking tape and a marker. The wires must be installed on the new alternator in the same positions as on the old one.
  
  
• 3). Unscrew the nuts that secure the wires to the back of the alternator, using a socket. Then pull the wires away from the alternator.
  
  
• 4). Loosen the bolt that secures the alternator to the adjusting arm, using a socket.
  
  
• 5). Slide the alternator toward the engine. Lift the drive belt off the alternator pulley.
  
  
• 6). Unscrew the two bolts that secure the alternator to the mounting brackets, using a socket.
  
  
• 7). Lift the alternator away from the engine and remove it from the vehicle.
  
  

Installing the Alternator

• 1). Lower the new alternator into position in the mounting brackets.
  
  
• 2). Loosely screw in the two bolts that secure alternator to the mounting bracket, using a socket.
  
  
• 3). Lay the drive belt over the alternator pulley.
  
  
• 4). Slide the alternator away from the engine, applying tension to the drive belt. Failure to apply enough tension to the belt will cause the belt to squeal.
  
  
• 5). Tighten the two bolts that secure alternator to the mounting brackets, using a socket.
  
  

Checking Drive Belt Tension

• 1). Place a straightedge alongside the alternator drive belt at its longest span (essentially horizontally).
  
  
• 2). Press down on the belt at an equal distance between the two pulleys with your hand.
  
  
• 3). Measure the widest distance between the belt and the straight edge. It should be between 1/4 and 1/2 inch.
  
  
• 4). If the distance is greater than 1/4 to 1/2 inch, tighten the drive belt by loosening the bolt that secures the alternator to the adjusting arm. Then slide the alternator away from the engine and re-tighten the bolt.