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General Servicing: Installation

  1. REMOVAL - Disconnect the battery ground cable. Disconnect and tag all the wiring harness terminals or connectors to the alternator to insure correct wiring when installing the replacement unit. Loosen, but do not remove the alternator mounting bolt (pivot bolt).
  2. Remove the adjusting bolt(s), spacer(s) (if equipped), and nut(s) from the adjusting brace. Loosen and remove the alternator drive belt (s). While supporting the alternator, remove the mounting bolt (pivot bolt) and lift the alternator from the vehicle.
    Fig 1: Delco-Remy Alternator (1969 & Later)
    G09343601Courtesy of NOT AVAILABLE
    Fig 2: Ford (Autolite) Alternator (W/Integral Regulator)
    G09343602Courtesy of NOT AVAILABLE
    Fig 3: Alternator Mounting Installation (Typical)
    G09343603Courtesy of NOT AVAILABLE
    CAUTION: The OEM Delco-Remy alternator with integral regulator can be found in different end housing (location of plug-in connection) positions. This is required to allow the wiring harness plug to reach the alternator plug-in connection.
    Fig 4: Most Chevrolet & Oldsmobile Models
    G09343604Courtesy of NOT AVAILABLE

It is Not recommended that service personnel attempt to disassemble a replacement alternator and rotate the end plate to match the OEM mounting position as the alternator brushes can easily drop off the slip ring and be damaged. 

Fig 5: Most Pontiac Models
G09343605Courtesy of NOT AVAILABLE

To determine the correct alternator plug position, remove the old alternator and place the alternator small threaded mounting hole on top in the 12 O'clock position. The plug position is then determined by its clock position - 3 O'clock - 9 O'clock - 12 O'clock. 

Fig 6: Most Buick, Cadillac & Vega Models
G09343606Courtesy of NOT AVAILABLE
  1. INSTALLATION - Position the alternator in the mounting bracket and install the mounting bolt (pivot bolt). Tighten the mounting bolt just finger tight at this time. Install the adjusting bolt(s), spacer(s) and nut, do not tighten. Install drive belt(s) and tension per manufacturers instructions. Tighten the adjusting bolt(s).
    CAUTION: When tensioning the alternator drive belts, DO NOT pry in the middle of the side of the alternator as internal damage may result.
  2. Tighten the mounting bolt (pivot bolt). Install the wiring harness terminals or connectors, making sure all connections are clean and tight. If necessary, polish all terminals and ground connections to bright metal to insure a good electrical connection. Make an inspection to be sure all wires are connected to the proper alternator terminal. Reconnect the battery ground cable. Start the engine and make sure the charging system is operating properly.
  3. Before installing the voltage regulator, make sure the battery negative cable is disconnected at the battery. Clean the mounting points on the firewall or fender to insure a good ground connection. Place the regulator and ground straps (if equipped) in position. Make sure no harness wires will be pinched under the regulator mounting base. Install mounting screws and connect harness connector or leads to regulator. Reconnect battery lead and check charging system for correct operation.