How to correctly install an alternator?

Since the alternator is the main source of electricity for all electrical and electronic systems in a car, its installation should not be done lightly. This coil of copper wire turns a magnet and produces electricity.

However, when it fails, fixing it or changing it is important, but installing it is another thing. This step is crucial when you want to repair your car yourself . If you are in this case, it is strongly advised to read this article carefully.

Concept on the operation of the alternator

Expert or not in the field of automotive mechanism, it is crucial to neglect any step during the change and installation of an alternator. Indeed, particular or specialist can proceed to the replacement of this electromechanical device. But before you get started, you must first have a notion of what an alternator really is.

In a nutshell, this device's main function is to provide electrical energy to all the electrical systems of a car. Starting up using mechanical energy for the creation of electromagnetic fields, the alternator then contributes to the creation of alternating current flowing in the vehicle.

Equipped with a rectifier that allows it to produce a direct current, the alternator is formed of various electronic components that are other than the diodes, for the flow of electric current in one and only direction.

In addition, this device is also well known for its role in providing a source of charge for the battery. 

The installation process of an alternator

To be able to distribute a considerable electric power through all the electrical systems of a car, it is essential to take into account the installation of the alternator. To do this, check the type of belt your alternator uses to connect to the engine.

If it is a serpentine belt, do not hesitate to check how it crosses the pulley. But before all that, disconnect the red cable from the positive terminal of the battery. Locate the failed alternator and use the belt removal. This allows somehow to relax the alternator belt and out of the pulley.

Unscrew the four fixing bolts with a socket or ratchet and remove them. Remove the device and disconnect all electrical connections that are mended. Take the alternator out of the engine block and pay attention to the new one to be installed.

To do this, check the voltage it delivers and check if the two pulleys, new and old alternator are identical in width and diameter. If not, ask for the old one to be mounted on the new one. For the new device, reassemble it in the opposite direction and reconnect the plugs and cables that you have disconnected. Then slide it into place and secure the bolts.

Install the tensioner in its place and secure it to the device and the engine block in an aligned fashion. Use the strap removal to turn on the belt and reconnect the red cable to the positive terminal of the battery. Finally, start your car and check that the alternator is running.

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