Posted By: steve alba
Alternator Removal/Install - May 19, 2018 12:08 am UTC
Hi, I'm looking for some help/advice to remove and install an alternator. I haven't done it before, looks like i'm having charging issues at the moment.
Few years ago I bought an high amperage alternator from (
www.excessiveamperage.com). What's the best method to use, go from underneath or from the top? anything I should look for or any tips/tricks you can recommend?
I appreciate any help. Thanks!
97 2g Auto FWD
Posted By: Rob Strelecki
Re: Alternator Removal/Install - May 19, 2018 03:49 pm UTC
This is for a 1G but it should give you the idea:
http://vfaq.com/mods/wayback/BradBauer/electrical/alt.htmlDon't forget to disconnect the battery negative first.
Posted By: Tim Eagles
Re: Alternator Removal/Install - May 21, 2018 01:05 pm UTC
Also, when you remove the main pivot bolt, be sure to install it from the opposite direction when it goes back in, as it will clear the exhaust side much easier on removal than the frame side, requiring the motor mount removal and corner drop on the motor/trans. Also, check to make sure that the high output alternator is actually making the same output at idle, and all the way through the RPM range, as some only make better amperage at the higher RPM range due to the modified design. Also confirm pulley size on that model so you don't over rev the internals at high motor RPM. Lots of people are switching to GM Saturn alternators, due to incredible voltage range stability and increased longevity; but heat shields MUST be in place, regardless. Not sure how tight the 2G fitment is, but some block massaging and or alternator case massaging is required as well as a spare alternator plug/pigtail but IIRC it was a direct fit plug, two wire just like our style.
Posted By: Matt Harland
Re: Alternator Removal/Install - May 21, 2018 06:24 pm UTC
Last summer, I also had some charging issues on my 2G and had to take out and put in my alternator multiple times. I'm pretty sure it can only be removed from the top unless you were to remove your oil filter, then maybe you could remove it from the bottom. The easiest way I found from my experience was to loosen and move the power steering pump over to the power steering fluid reservoir so it's out of the way and then remove the bracket which holds the power steering pump. Disconnect all the wiring from the alternator and remove the upper bolt holding the alternator to the bracket. I didn't remove the bracket itself, but it may help with removing the alternator as it is a bit of a squeeze. From underneath the vehicle, you can remove the main pivot bolt and the alternator should be free to come out from the top. Good luck with your charging issues!
Posted By: steve alba
Re: Alternator Removal/Install - May 24, 2018 01:01 pm UTC
Thanks guys, hopefully this weekend I can start taking things apart and see how it goes.
Posted By: steve alba
Re: Alternator Removal/Install - May 30, 2018 09:27 pm UTC
Ran into an issue with this part
it's stuck, can't adjust it.
https://ibb.co/bRVfYJAny idea where I can pick one up? or use something else? Checked parts source near my work, they dont have anything. Thinking of checking Canadian Tire next.
Thanks!
Posted By: Rob Strelecki
Re: Alternator Removal/Install - May 30, 2018 10:01 pm UTC
Did you try Mitsubishi?
Next bet would be a fellow DSMer, or a wrecker.
Posted By: steve alba
Re: Alternator Removal/Install - May 30, 2018 10:57 pm UTC
Thanks Rob, I posted in the looking to buy section. Ill check Mits in the morning. Thanks
Posted By: steve alba
Re: Alternator Removal/Install - May 30, 2018 11:11 pm UTC
No luck with Mitsubishi, nothing in stock
Posted By: Matt Harland
Re: Alternator Removal/Install - May 30, 2018 11:11 pm UTC
Try soaking it with some penetrating fluid, letting it dry a bit, then heating it up. I recall mine being stiff too, but that loosened it up for me. It's worth a shot and it sure beats buying another one.
Posted By: steve alba
Re: Alternator Removal/Install - May 30, 2018 11:44 pm UTC
Tried penetrating fluid earlier today but I didnt try to heat it up. WIfe just got home so I got a ride. Making a run to buy a torch now. Thanks!
Posted By: steve alba
Re: Alternator Removal/Install - May 31, 2018 06:43 pm UTC
Didn't work for me. Looks like only the head was bending and turning a bit.
Posted By: Matt Harland
Re: Alternator Removal/Install - May 31, 2018 11:44 pm UTC
That sucks, hopefully you can get a new one in asap.
Posted By: steve alba
Re: Alternator Removal/Install - June 02, 2018 09:18 pm UTC
Car is charging now
thanks guys!
But now all of sudden I see fresh coolant dripping somewhere under the driver side. Can anything I changed could of caused it?
Posted By: Rob Strelecki
Re: Alternator Removal/Install - June 02, 2018 10:08 pm UTC
There is a coolant line in the area, maybe you disturbed it.
Posted By: Ben Stretch
Re: Alternator Removal/Install - June 02, 2018 11:42 pm UTC
The slotted bracket for the alternator tensioner is mounted by one of the water pump bolts. Did you disturb that?
Posted By: steve alba
Re: Alternator Removal/Install - June 03, 2018 03:36 pm UTC
Think your right, looks like its leaking in this area once I start the car up. I didn't touch that nut.