The Honda Prelude uses an alternator to run electrical devices in your vehicle while the engine is running. A voltage regulator ensures the voltage level remains constant and is usually part of the alternator assembly. You may need to replace the alternator if your battery continually runs down or your headlights become dimmer while the engine is running.
Determine which alternator your Honda Prelude will need. You'll want to be sure the new alternator is compatible with your Prelude's engine. Models made from 1992 to 1996 have 2.0 L, 2.2 L and 2.3 L engines and models made after 1996 have a 2.2 L VTEC engine.
Disconnect the negative and then the positive battery cable with a socket wrench. Remove the power steering pump and actuator for the cruise control but don't disconnect its cable. Remove the electrical connections from the alternator.
Loosen the bottom through bolt and then the adjusting bolt with a socket wrench so that you can disconnect the alternator belt. You can now completely remove the adjusting bolt and lock nut along with the through bolt. This will allow you to remove the alternator.
Install the new alternator assembly. Replace the alternator belt and adjust it to the proper tension before you tighten the adjusting lock nut to 16 foot pounds with a torque wrench. Torque the through bolt to 33 foot pounds with a torque wrench.
Attach the electrical connections to the alternator. Install the power steering pump and actuator for the cruise control and connect the negative and then the positive battery cable with a socket wrench.
