Vehicles: How to Change an Alternator
When a vehicle's alternator is functioning properly, it will put out between 13 and 18 AC volts that power the electronics and ignition system while recharging the battery. But, if it delivers less than 13 volts, the alternator will fail to keep the battery recharged. You can save money when you replace your alternator by doing it yourself and following the steps below. 1. Disconnect the positive battery cable. Please take note the positive battery cable is red an not black. 2. Locate the alternator on your particular vehicle. 3. Use a serpentine belt tool to loosen the belt and move it off the pulley of the alternator. 4. Put back the bolts that hold the alternator in place. It will be a minimum of 2, and no more than 4, bolts depending on your make and model. 5. Employ a socket and ratchet to loosen and remove the bolts. 6. Pull out the alternator, then unplug and remove the nut for any electrical connections. ...