How To Remove and Install
Alternators and Starters



If you've seen War of the Worlds, you know what an Electro Magnetic Pulse can do to your alternator. In this Job of Month, we'll show you how to win the war on expensive auto repairs by showing you how to remove and install alternators and starters yourself. It's really easy; the first time I did this it took me a few hours on a Sunday afternoon.

Remember, free instructions are available from Mitchell on Demand at your local PartSource store. If you find yourself in a jam, talk to the Parts Pros. They'll be happy to help.

Let's get started.

 
A Few Things Before You Begin

Unless you have no nerve endings, allow the engine to cool completely before attempting to replace the alternator or the starter.

It's always a good idea to use a fender cover to protect your paint job.

You may have to remove some components to gain access to the alternator on some vehicle applications. See your local PartSource for free print out on vehicle specific instructions.

NOTE: When the battery is disconnected some vehicle computer and memory systems may lose data. You might need to drive your car for about 25km to allow your car's computer to reboot itself.

 
Make Safety Your Top Priority

Every vehicle is different. When it comes to maintenance and repairs, always follow the vehicle's owner's manual.

Safety should be your number one priority. Don't smoke, drink alcoholic beverages, or wear a necktie while working on the car. Watch out for hot objects, sharp instruments, hazardous materials and other potential safety hazards in and around your workspace.

Don't work with a Philips when the job calls for a flat. Substituting tools can compromise your safety or your vehicle's performance.

Finally, when the fun turns to frustration, or if the job requires specialized knowledge beyond your capabilities, please do not attempt it yourself. Talk to a Parts Pro or seek the assistance of a professional mechanic or installer. The last thing we want is someone getting hurt.

 

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Getting Started
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Removing the Alternator

For Removing the Starter, click here.

Disconnect the battery ground cable.
Remove the ground wire (black) from the alternator.
Disconnect the positive wire (red wire held on by a retaining nut) from the back of the alternator.
Now disconnect the wire harness from the alternator.
Remove the drive belt.

NOTE: Some models use a belt tensioner that applies tension to the drive belt. The best tool to use for this job is the serpentine belt tool. If you can borrow one from a neighbour you can get one at PartSource. (Part# 648451)

On other models you need loosen the adjusting bolt on the alternator bracket. If you're not sure about how to remove the drive belt, visit your local PartSource for free print-outs with vehicle specific instructions.

Take off the mounting bolts from the alternator bracket.
Now remove the alternator from the engine compartment.

There. You have removed the alternator. How easy was that?


Installing Your New Alternator


Put the alternator in the engine compartment.
Install the mounting bolts that connect the alternator to the alternator bracket.
Connect the alternator wiring harness.
Now connect the positive wire to the alternator

NOTE: Your new alternator should come with a retaining nut. If it doesn't keep the old nut. Remember to remove the nut before you install the positive wire.
Connect the ground wire to the alternator.
Now install the drive belt.

This is a great time to replace the old worn out belt. When inspecting the old belt look for signs of cracking, oil soaked, hard glazed, splitting or fraying. All these signs mean it's time to replace the drive belt.

If your vehicle no longer has the belt routing diagram under the hood, visit your local PartSource for a free print-out of the belt routing diagram.

Reconnect the ground battery cable.

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Removing the Starter

For Removing the Alternator, click here.

Before you get started (no pun intended), you may need to remove some parts to gain access to the starter. This only applies to some vehicles. Visit your local PartSource for free print-outs with vehicle specific instructions.
Disconnect the battery ground cable.
Raise the vehicle and support it securely with jack stands.
Disconnect the wires from the starter and starter solenoid

NOTE: Probably a good idea to remember where each wire comes off. A good way to keep track is to mark each wire with masking tape indicating where it connects to. Trust me. I learned the hard way.
Now remove the mounting bolts.

NOTE: Some vehicles have two mounting bolts others have three. Not to worry. Every manufacturer is different.
Remove the starter from the engine.

Some vehicles use shims. Make note of where they were placed because you'll have to replace them the exact same way with the new starter.



Installing the Starter


Put the new starter in the engine compartment. If you have them, install the shims in the original position.
Install the mounting bolts. Torque to the specifications. (Visit your local PartSource for a free print-out of torque specs.)
Connect the wires to the starter and starter solenoid.
Reinstall any components that may have been removed to gain access to the starter.
Raise vehicle and remove the jack stands.
Reconnect the battery ground cable.

Now raise the roof. You just installed a starter all by yourself!

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- Child's Play
- Mother-In-laws Do It
- Tricky at Times
- Instructions Required
- You'll Be Here for a few    hours

3/8 socket set (metric or standard depending on make of vehicle)
3/8 ratchet
3/8 extension
3/8 u-joint
Serpentine belt tool
Set of combination wrenches (metric or standard depending on make of vehicle)
Jack
Jack stands


Alternator
Starter
Do it yourself automotive repair and maintenance tips from PartSource auto parts pros.
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