blacklabel

I searched, but didnt find any good tips on replacing the alternator on my '92 V6. My haynes manual is almost useless for this.

Im going to replace the alternator tomorrow (waiting for parts)

I was looking today and it looks like I may have to remove something to get the alternator out. It looks like I may be able to get it out by removing the hoses to the airbox and jamming it out that way...? or else maybe I have to remove the distributor? or the entire airbox?

any tips would be appreciated.

its a stock 92 v6 5sp btw.

dutchboy

I did mine last year.
Didn't have to remove anything other than the bolts holding the alternator in place.
1 beer and about of 10 minutes of studying...I removed the bolts,spent about another 5 minutes repositioning the alternator in various different ways and then...*KABLAMM*...she came right on out...through the front path!
The Chilton manual says to remove this n that(lower rad. hose) and to bring it out the bottom way.
It is very feesable to bring her out the front and put the new in the same way.
Tip:while it's out...replace the belt. Needed or not. If the old is usable...spare it in the back in your tool box!
Good luck and let us know how you do!
:>)

dutchboy

Correction...I did have to remove the air box hoses to acces the bolts :>)

bugs1961

I have found that it normally takes half as long to remove parts in the way and not have to spend twice as much time and trouble trying to fight getting the part out and in. You can remove the entire air box in about 5 minutes. Do not forget to remove the negative battery cable before you start, unless you enjoy really cool fireworks under the hood.
Bugs

olharleyman

Don't waist your money replacing it if it only seems to not be charging anymore, replace the brushes it's real easy and only about 15-20 Min's longer then replacing the whole unit and the parts(brushes) you can get from 4crawlers site for like $9.00 bucks vs. what $150-$200 for the alternator.

check here
4crawler.com

Elton

it was pretty easy just remove some of the intake hoses

blacklabel

thanks for the tips guys.

I replaced both belts about 6 months ago. and the old ones are already in the toolbox for emergency

I was already at the dealer getting a parking brake cable, so I figured I would just get the alternator there. ordering parts online and shipping to canada usually takes way too long.

I guess im just going to try to wiggle the alternator out and in, and if it doesnt work ill be swearing as i rip off the airbox i suppose

dutchboy

If just replacing the brushes...be good at soldering :>)

drmix

another option would of been finding a good used one. i got mine off of craigslist for like $50 with only about 20k on it

blacklabel

I just finished replacing the alternator. took about 30 mins. I decided to remove the intake hose, and the 2 plastic boxes beside the airbox. this is probably the best way to go, it gives you lots of access to the alternator.

definately an easy fix. next up, the front parking brake cable

fastpakr

Also check your local phone book for alternator shops. A few years ago the alternator on my Mercedes 300D went out and it would have been $250 or so (IIRC) to buy a replacement. Local alternator specialty shop tore it open and rebuilt it for $70 and I never had another problem out of it.