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So, what should I expect when I change my alternator? There isn't a how to or anything on it. I know it's gonna be tough.
Anyone have tips, suggestions, etc.??? Thanks in advance.
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It is easier on a hoist, but stil not especially easy.
The upper bolt is difficult to get to, no matter how you do it.
You should be able to get the alternator out by removing the right front wheel and disconnecting the right tie rod end.
Jim Johnson
98 SVT
03 Escape Limited
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You need to remove the passenger side tire and plastic fender well. When you go to take the alternator out through the fender, you'll need to unbolt the tie rod to get it out (it's obvious when you see it that it's in the way). You'll need a set of extensions and at least one univeral to get at the bolts because of everything being in the way. Top bolt is the hardest to get to but get creative with the tools and you'll figure it out. Some people took the Y-pipe off to get more room but my bolts were really rusted and I didn't want to make another trip to the store to replace them so I worked around it. Also need a low profile ratchet or breaker bar to release the belt tensioner. There's not much room between the tensioner and the side of the engine bay. You can add a small piece of pipe onto the end of the ratchet handle if it's too short to reach to the tensioner and get more leverage. If your belt needs to be replaced, now is a good time to do it.
It's not really that hard once you figure out the approach. Hope that helps.
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Thanks for the advice. Someone posted a how to in another similar thread.
I actually just replaced the belt and put on a DMD a month ago, so I'm familiar with that part of the job.
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I did the top bolt from the drivers side fenderwell.  A long extension and a flex worked fine. Jim
"Every normal man must be tempted at times to spit upon his hands, hoist the black flag, and begin slitting throats".--H.L. Mencken
Bumper sticker,
OXYMORON #65 - Liberal Thinker
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Originally posted by jthursby: I did the top bolt from the drivers side fenderwell. A long extension and a flex worked fine.
Jim
Driver's side fenderwell? Did you use a 4 foot extension or something?
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Originally posted by miller542:
I actually just replaced the belt and put on a DMD a month ago, so I'm familiar with that part of the job.
If you did it by yourself then you don't have to worry about the alternator, just have to look a bit higher
mods ?
Wut ! 19 inches !
My Car
SOLD
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Originally posted by jthursby: I did the top bolt from the drivers side fenderwell. A long extension and a flex worked fine.
Jim
I did too, it was much easier that way. I have replace the alternator 3 times, the first two from autozone were bad.
Sold 1998 Contour LX 13.868 sec 1/4 mile time.
Two years of rental cars, seriously.
Holding out for 07 Cobra Mustang.
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Originally posted by markc: Originally posted by jthursby: I did the top bolt from the drivers side fenderwell. A long extension and a flex worked fine.
Jim
Driver's side fenderwell? Did you use a 4 foot extension or something?
Heh heh, yes I used a one piece about 40 inches long. Much easyer than trying to finagle your hand up above it.
Jim
"Every normal man must be tempted at times to spit upon his hands, hoist the black flag, and begin slitting throats".--H.L. Mencken
Bumper sticker,
OXYMORON #65 - Liberal Thinker
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Originally posted by jthursby: Originally posted by markc: Originally posted by jthursby: I did the top bolt from the drivers side fenderwell. A long extension and a flex worked fine.
Jim
Driver's side fenderwell? Did you use a 4 foot extension or something?
Heh heh, yes I used a one piece about 40 inches long. Much easyer than trying to finagle your hand up above it.
Jim
Wow, I'll have to remember that next time (I am sure there will be a next time). I have an ATX and am wondering maybe that would cause a problem though since it might be in the way?
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