Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Alternator: Service and Repair

Replacement

1. Make sure you have the anti-theft code for the radio, then write down the frequencies for the radio's preset buttons.
2. Disconnect the battery negative cable, then disconnect the positive cable.

Alternator Replacement:




3. Remove the lower mounting bolt, adjusting lock bolt and adjusting rod, then remove the belt from the pulley.

Alternator Replacement:




4. As shown in the illustration, rotate the alternator 90 degrees counterclockwise and pull it out toward you.

Alternator Replacement:




5. Disconnect the 4P connector and the harness clip bracket, then remove the terminal nut and the BLK wire from the B terminal. Take out the alternator.
6. Install in the reverse order of removal.
7. Adjust the alternator belt tension.
8. Enter the anti-theft code for the radio, then enter the customer's radio station presets.

Alternator Overhaul

NOTE: Do not remove the pulley unless the front bearing needs replacement.

Alternator Overhaul:




To loosen the pulley locknut, use the tools as shown. If necessary, use an impact wrench.

Rectifier Test

NOTE: The diodes are designed to allow current to pass in one direction while blocking it in the opposite direction. Since the alternator rectifier is made up of eight diodes (four pairs), each diode must be tested for continuity in both directions with an ohmmeter that has diode checking capability; a total of 16 checks.




1. Check for continuity in each direction, between the B and P, and between the E (ground) and P terminals of each diode pair. All diodes should have continuity in only one direction.
2. If any of the eight diodes fails, replace the rectifier assembly. (Diodes are not available separately.)


Alternator Brush Inspection

1. Remove the end cover, then take out the brush holder by removing its two screws.




2. Measure the length of the brushes with a vernier caliper.

Alternator Brush Length:
Standard: 10.5 mm (0.41 in)
Service Limit: 1.5 mm (0.06 in)

If the brushes are less than the service limit, replace the alternator brush assembly.

Rotor Slip Ring Test




1. Check the resistance between the slip rings. There should be 2.9 ohms.
^ If resistance meets the specification, go to step 2.
^ If resistance does not meet the specification, replace the alternator.
2. Check that there is no continuity between the slip rings and the rotor or rotor shaft.
3. If the rotor fails either continuity check, replace the alternator.


Stator Test




1. Check that there is continuity between each pair of leads.
2. Check that there is no continuity between each lead and the coil core.
3. If the coil fails either continuity check, replace the alternator.

Alternator Belt Inspection and Adjustment

Deflection method:
Apply a force of 98 N (10 kgf, 22 lbf), and measure the deflection between the alternator and crankshaft pulley.

Deflection: 9.0 - 11.5 mm (0.35 - 0.45 in)

Alternator Belt Inspection And Adjustment:




NOTE: On a brand-new belt (one that has been run for less than five minutes), the deflection should be 5.5 - 7.0 mm (0.22 - 0.28 in) when first measured. If the belt is worn or damaged, replace it.

Belt tension gauge method:
Attach the belt tension gauge to the belt and measure the tension. Follow the gauge manufacturer's instructions.

Tension: 390 - 590 N (40 - 60 kgf, 88 - 132 lbf)

Alternator Belt Inspection And Adjustment:




NOTE: On a brand-new belt, (one that has been run for less than five minutes), the tension should be 785 - 980 N (80 - 100 kgf, 176 - 220 lbf) when first measured. If the belt is worn or damaged, replace it.

If adjustment is necessary:
1. Loosen the lower mounting bolt and the adjusting lock bolt.

Alternator Belt Inspection And Adjustment:




2. Move the alternator by turning the adjusting rod to obtain the proper belt tension, then retighten the bolts.
3. Recheck the deflection or tension of the belt.