It is expensive to have a professional remove and replace the alternator if it goes out on your truck, so to save money, do it yourself. The process isn't too hard or time consuming. Follow the instructions provided, take your time and you'll have the new alternator in and the truck back up and running in no time.
Get all tools and supplies you will need together first. Put some thin gloves on to avoid getting grease and grime on your hands. **Disconnect the negative battery cable to avoid shock. Check the bolt heads to see which size wrenches and sockets you will need and put the tools close by.
Unplug all electric connectors from the alternator to the motor. These are easy to disconnect. All that's usually required is pulling the connectors straight out by hand.
Remove the serpentine (fan) belt. Be sure to write down how the belt goes around all pulleys. Even better, draw a diagram or take a picture. It is very easy to get the belt twisted when putting it back on if you don't remember the exact order it goes over the pulleys. Use a breaker bar to break the tension on the tensioner to release the fan belt. Work the fan belt off all pulleys and check for any damage. If the belt is still in good shape, lay it aside to replace afterward.
Unscrew the bolt from the back of the alternator and place it somewhere it will not get lost. It's a good idea to have a cup or something to put all the bolts in to keep them together and easy to find for reinstallation.
Unscrew the bolt from the alternator ground. This little metal ring on two wires is attached to the intake system, from the alternator. (It is close to the connector that has a black rubber end that looks like the bowl of a pipe.)
Remove the bolts that attach the alternator to the brackets that hold it in place. Be sure to do the front and back brackets, and then push them aside and out of the way.
Lift the alternator slowly out of the housing that holds it in place. Keep all parts together, so if you need to take the alternator to a parts store the sales agent can see everything and you are sure to get the correct replacement. Make a note of the make, model and year of the truck you are working on, along with engine size so ordering a new alternator is easier for the parts agent.
