The 1997 Dodge RAM pick-up alternator contains an internal regulator. If the regulator or any part of the alternator malfunctions, including the bushings in the pulley, the brushes and the diodes inside the alternator, the alternator must be replaced. On some Dodge Rams, the alternator sends a trouble code to the malfunction indicator light (MIL). You can easily find this out by turning the ignition switch on and off twice -- without starting the engine -- then back on, within five seconds. The MIL will flash codes if your vehicle is equipped with this feature.
Disconnect the negative battery cable and lay it aside, ensuring that it doesn't touch metal. Install a socket on the center bolt of the tensioner pulley. Push the pulley toward the engine to loosen tension on the drive belt. Remove the belt from the pulleys.
Unplug the wiring harness connector on the alternator. Remove the output terminal nut, using the appropriate wrench, then slide the cable off. Reinstall the nut so that you don't lose it. Remove the alternator mounting bolts, using the appropriate socket, then remove the alternator from the engine.
Slide the mounting bolts through the bolt holes on the alternator, then mount the alternator on the engine. Tighten the retaining bolts to 30 ft.-lbs. of torque. Reconnect the electrical harness. Remove the nut from the old alternator, reinstall the output cable and tighten the nut firmly.
Reinstall the drive belt, using the belt routing diagram. The diagram is on the radiator fan shroud or the underside of the hood. Reconnect the negative battery cable.
