AutoZone Car Care: How to Replace Your Alternator

Summary

This video guides viewers through the straightforward process of removing and installing an alternator in their vehicle. It emphasizes the importance of starting with a fully charged battery and provides detailed steps for both the removal and installation, including checking for underlying issues that may have caused the original alternator to fail. Safety precautions are highlighted, along with the necessity of avoiding overtightening connections. The video encourages DIY enthusiasts to consult AutoZone for testing and support, reinforcing that 'do it yourself doesn't mean you have to do it alone.'

Takeaways

• 😀 Replacing an alternator is a relatively easy DIY procedure.
• 🔧 Always observe basic safety precautions when working under the hood, such as setting the parking brake and wearing eye protection.
• 🔋 Check the battery's state of charge before replacing the alternator; it should be at least 12.4V to avoid damaging the new unit.
• 🛠️ Disconnect the negative battery cable and remove any obstructions, such as heat shields, before starting the alternator removal.
• ⚡ Inspect the old alternator for signs of damage, such as leaks or overheating, to prevent future failures.
• 🔍 Spin the alternator pulley to check for bearing failure or excessive resistance, which could indicate underlying issues.
• 🔄 Installation of the new alternator involves reversing the removal process and ensuring proper alignment of mounting points.
• 📦 Always check the box for technical service bulletins and ensure the new unit matches the old one.
• 🔩 Avoid overtightening electrical connections and mounting bolts to prevent damage to the alternator.
• 🚗 Conduct a final inspection and test the vehicle after installation to ensure the alternator is functioning correctly.

Q & A

What is the primary purpose of the alternator in a vehicle?

The alternator's primary purpose is to maintain the charge of the battery while the vehicle is running, rather than charging a drained battery.

What safety precautions should be taken before replacing an alternator?

Before replacing an alternator, set the parking brake, ensure automatic transmissions are in park and manual transmissions are in neutral, allow the vehicle to cool, wear proper eye protection, and avoid loose clothing or jewelry.

How can you check the battery's state of charge?

To check the battery's state of charge, use a voltmeter: connect the red lead to the positive terminal and the black lead to the negative terminal. A reading of 12.6 volts indicates a fully charged battery, while a reading below 12.4 volts means it needs charging.

What should you do if the battery is not fully charged before replacing the alternator?

If the battery is not fully charged, you should charge it using a standard home battery charger or take it to AutoZone for free charging and testing before proceeding with the alternator replacement.

What steps should be taken to remove the old alternator?

To remove the old alternator, disconnect the negative battery cable, remove any components blocking access, disconnect the electrical cables, remove the drive belt, and unscrew the mounting bolts before pulling the alternator out.

What signs should you look for on the old alternator to identify potential issues?

Look for signs of contamination from fluids, burnt areas indicating overheating, excessive resistance in cables, or signs of bearing failure when spinning the pulley.

What is the recommended procedure for installing a new alternator?

To install the new alternator, compare it with the old one for correct fitment, connect the electrical terminals without overtightening, secure the mounting bolts, reinstall any removed components, and reattach the drive belt with proper tension.

Why is it important not to overtighten electrical connection terminals during installation?

Overtightening electrical connection terminals can break internal components of the alternator, leading to potential failures and the need for replacement.

What should be done after reconnecting the battery?

After reconnecting the battery, conduct a final inspection of all connections, ensure that tools are accounted for, start the vehicle, and verify the repair using a voltmeter.

Where can you seek additional help if needed during the alternator replacement process?

For additional help, you can call AutoZone’s technical support hotline, visit their website for vehicle-specific repair information, or stop by your local AutoZone.