2007-03-03 13:15:01 · 17 answers · asked by shrinkyd2003 1 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
I own a Chevy Cavalier.
2007-03-03 13:29:39 · update #1
You can go to any auto parts store and buy a repair manual
for your car. Note:Always unhook the battery before any electrical repair!!!
2007-03-03 13:20:29 · answer #1 · answered by redman 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Any replacement procedure requires a fundamental knowledge of the procedure, skill and tools. To avoid damage to any systems, disconnect the battery, and use a 9.0 volt, $5.00 part that fits into the cigar lighter to prevent volatile memory loss. If you can see the alternator clearly, go for it. Many alternators require the removal and replacement of other interfering parts. Be careful with moving parts. Remove the key from the ignition before you begin. Sketch anything that looks too complicated like serpentine belt routing.
2007-03-03 21:24:16 · answer #2 · answered by George R 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
O.K. We now know it is a cavalier. Now is it a v-6? or a 4 cyl.? I have seen them wioth the alternator on the bottom and this is such a pain in the @#$ that it is well worth the money a mechanic is going to charge you to replace it.
2007-03-03 21:43:55 · answer #3 · answered by heavyhauldad 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It really depends on the car. Basically, if the alternator is on top of the engine and you can access it fairly easily it is pretty easy to change. Some cars have the alternator on the bottom of the engine and they can be a real challenge.
2007-03-03 21:23:14 · answer #4 · answered by boogie2510 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'm no mechanic, but I was able to do it. If you have a compact car, its probably going to be a pain in the butt, because the worse thing about changing it for me was just getting to it (I own a Ford Ranger). If you go to your local Pep Boys, Napa, etc., they should have manuals for your specific make, model, and year that give you step by step instructions on how to do it. It helped me out alot with that and other projects I've done on my truck.
2007-03-03 21:25:22 · answer #5 · answered by Stingo 34 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It's simple if you have the tools and correct replacement alternator. Just to remember to tension yout belt correctly. If you have a serpentine belt ( 1 belt for the entire engine) it will be self tensioning. Check the belt first before you put it back on. If it shows signs of wear, replace it.
2007-03-03 21:20:03 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Depends on the car, and I would have to say no. Especialy if it is a newer model car. Trust me. I work as a automotive technician. If you have to ask then I would not recomend trying the repair yourself.
2007-03-03 21:21:43 · answer #7 · answered by akicestorm 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
spend the fifteen bucks and get a haynes manual. most of the time it is easy. on some cars it has to be gotten out from underneath but usually its accesible from above.
2007-03-03 21:21:51 · answer #8 · answered by robert s 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It can be easy. If you aren't used to doing much mechanical work make sure you have yourself a manual. Remember to disconnect your battery's negetive terminal for safety reasons.
2007-03-03 21:19:08 · answer #9 · answered by Andrew 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Have a back up plan if you attempt this. If you take it off & cannot get it back on , you will not be able to drive it to get help.
2007-03-03 22:12:52 · answer #10 · answered by gejandsons 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋