OT: Who works on cars?

supaboy1981 · #1 11/21/2006, 12:16 PM

I got a '00 Ford Escort ZX2 that needs a new alternator. Lemme know I need it!

Avalanche Wolf · #2 11/21/2006, 04:04 PM

should be a pretty easy install. Most just have the two bolts , one to hold it and one to adjust the belt tension. Other wise most have 3 wires for the power and ground.

Most parts stores you can pick it up they will charge you a core charge and when you returnthe old ne you get that money back. Let me know if i can help

MandM · #3 11/21/2006, 07:48 PM

You can get a rebuilt one through Kragen usually for much less than a new one. In my experience (dating myself, but pre-1970 cars), when the alternater goes out, it often fries the voltage regulator. The regulator is not usually expensive and I would replace both. It usually is mounted to the firewall with a couple of screws.
Now I get my nails done and pay boys to fix my cars.

robertloop · #4 11/21/2006, 10:52 PM

Auto tech here. If you are replacing the alt yourself, start by disconnecting the negative battery cable. Your car has a spring loaded serpentine belt tentioner. You will need to release the belt tention to remove the belt. Alternators have two or three bolts. Most vehicles since the 80's have integrated voltage regulators. (inside the alternator). Your ford's is in the alt. Make sure the alternator was properly diagnosed. Otherwise you may end up replacing a part that was not defective. HTH

Robert

supaboy1981 · #5 11/22/2006, 01:11 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by robertloop
Auto tech here. If you are replacing the alt yourself, start by disconnecting the negative battery cable. Your car has a spring loaded serpentine belt tentioner. You will need to release the belt tention to remove the belt. Alternators have two or three bolts. Most vehicles since the 80's have integrated voltage regulators. (inside the alternator). Your ford's is in the alt. Make sure the alternator was properly diagnosed. Otherwise you may end up replacing a part that was not defective. HTH

Robert

Where is the release for the spring?? They car completly shut off all electrical on the freeway this morning The battery would hold a charge for a bit when it was jumped and the cables were kept on for a few mins. I know if it was just the battery not holding a charge then the electrical wouldnt shut off on the free way however everything did shut off which makes me belive its the alternator not putting anything out.

DO I have to completly remove the serpentine? I hope not. Thanks

Avalanche Wolf · #6 11/22/2006, 04:21 AM

have you / are able to take it to a kragens or simular store. most can run a system check on the charging system to let you know where the prolem is.

But your problem sound like what i went through when my F*rd pickup alt died.

robertloop · #7 11/22/2006, 10:36 PM

The serp tentioner is a spring loaded assembly. It is nearly immposible to describe how to release it if you dont already know what it is or where it is on your engine. A chilton or haynes manual will most likely have the information you need. You will not need to completely remove the belt. Just need to remove it from the alt pulley.

supaboy1981 · #8 11/29/2006, 01:06 AM

OK got it done yesterday car runs beautifully again. One thing though, now that its all back on and stuff the car alarm goes off every once in a while for no reason at all. what do you think that might be?