What is Alternator?

An alternator is a generator of electric power in a car and is a major component of the vehicle's charging system. All cars with an internal combustion engine except for some hybrids have an alternator. When an engine is running, the alternator charges the battery and supplies additional electric power for the vehicle electrical systems. An alternator is bolted to the engine and is driven by a serpentine belt.

Adjust an Alternator Bracket

Inspect the Alternator Belt for Damage:

One of the most common symptoms of a loose or damaged alternator belt is a rattling noise under the hood of the car while the engine is running. If you hear this noise and determine that the alternator bracket is loose, you should first inspect the alternator belt.

Removing these Parts:

1. Remove the battery terminals from your vehicle. Anytime you complete repairs under the hood and especially on electrical system components, you need to remove the battery cables from the terminal(s).

2. Remove the alternator adjustment pulley. Once power is eliminated, you'll proceed to remove the alternator adjustment pulley first. This will make it easier to remove the belt and the alternator bracket.

3. Remove the alternator belt. When the pulley has been removed, your belt will be loose and easier to pull off the alternator and crank pulley. It should simply slip off without the tensioner installed.

4. Remove the alternator. In order to replace the alternator bracket, you'll have to remove the alternator first. Make sure to document each electrical connection with tape, so you know where each wire needs to be reinstalled.

5. Remove the alternator bracket. This is the final step. Make sure you remove the bracket completely and clean the base plate with degreaser before attempting to reinstall the new bracket.

Install the New Hardware:

Installing the new alternator bracket will require a new bracket, belt, and tensioner pulley at the minimum. You should also purchase new bolts for the alternator bracket.

The final step before reattaching the battery cables is to verify the belt tension before starting the vehicle. Again, the service manual for your vehicle will provide you with the correct procedures for adjusting the alternator tensioner pulley and the alternator belt.