I've found that my alternator pulley needs replacing (worn inside). Since I have the A/C and distribution covers out, I've managed to loosen the alternator mount. (I'm doing the full service) What I need to know now is how do I disconnect it from the car? The wire that comes out of the alternator goes beneath the starter but I can't figure out where does it connect to ... Do I need to remove the back of the alternator and disconnect it somewhere inside ? Thanks, Rui
Wire/plastic/end clip should pull out of the rear of the Alt. Did some PO do some sort of "hardwire" where the plastic connection is missing? **Not meant as an insult**....is the Battery disconected?
Yes, you remove the alternator's rear cover. (Be sure to disconnect the battery first). Then remove the nut fastening the large cable to the back of the alternator, & unplug the small wire that's plugged into the alternator. At this point there shouldn't be anything connected to the alternator. You may have to remove 1 or 2 of the A/C compressor lower bracket studs that go thru the front bank cam belt cover. The alternator comes out up fairly high by the water pump. You have to twist it around to find the position that lets it come out. On a few 328s, the gas tank may be so close to the engine that the alternator won't quite come out. Either the cam belt cover must be removed, or the gas tank loostened up & moved outwards about 6-12mm. However, with the cam cover off I don't think that this problem can occurr.
BTDT! one 328 I did a service on the tank had to come out just to get at that side of the engine. a real PITA! On my mondi the alt has an aluminum asbestos sandwich heat shield that mounted off the back, kept the headers from cooking it. while your in there if the starter looks toasty get a heat shield wrap for it as well, any big block American version will do, usually around $20 for the stuff.
Alternator is out after about a 2 hours fight !! Thanks to all and in particular to smg2 and the picture posted. It was priceless to find the nuts on the back of the alternator when you can not see them. It's 0:30 AM and I need to go to sleep ... but happy Rui
Another happy car owner helped by F-Chat and it's members. You guys are great! "It's 0:30 AM and I need to go to sleep ... but happy" Rui
