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1998 Eclipse alternator


lurch12_2000
02-02-2008, 07:27 PM
I have a '98 Eclipse 2.0 DOHC and no manual. Need to know how difficult it is to get at the alternator and replace. Other vehicles I've done it's easy to get at , just remove a few bolts, disconnect eletrical leads, release tension on belt, slide belt off and remove alternator.
thanks

JoeShmoe
02-03-2008, 07:11 PM
Check this thread out. Its really good IMO.

http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=885209

lurch12_2000
02-03-2008, 07:16 PM
OK I got it out but the Advanced Auto parts store bench tested and said the alternator was putting out 14.6v and working fine. Now what? Regulator is built in so it's not that.

FYI
Alternator removal was a pain in the butt:
Disconnect battery leads
Jack and block up car and remove front right wheel
Remove right plastic rock shield(3 bolts to frame , 2 bolts to side plastic) to expose belts and lower alternator
Disconnect wiring plug and main wire connection(10mm)
Unbolt upper and lower mount bolts(15mm)
Loosen adjuster nut all the way and remove
Unhook belt off alternator
Tap alternater with a wood block to break loose from mount and leave resting on the suspension (or steering arm because it won't come out any way I tried at this point!)
Take triangle looking mount bracket off (3 bolts-15mm) of engine first
Now twist and turn alternator til you finagle it out

JoeShmoe
02-03-2008, 07:21 PM
LOL, sounds alot harder than it really is. Although I did forget to mention jacking up the car cause there is no way of getting under the car any other way. But I like working on my car so I thought it was fairly easy. Have you replaced your Alt belt lately?

lurch12_2000
02-03-2008, 09:34 PM
the alt belt was replaced last year and still looks good, no cracks or real wear.
I made sure it was tightened (1/2" deflection) when I put it back together.

Any chance the auto parts was wrong in my alt testing good? Should I just spend $120 for a new one?
How about the fuse box- there is a fuse labelled alternator but it does not look blown.

lurch12_2000
02-08-2008, 11:25 AM
follow up:
It was a bad alternator (or regualtor built in). Had another parts store bench test, it was bad, replaced w/reman alternator and all fixed!

JoeShmoe
02-09-2008, 11:31 PM
follow up:
It was a bad alternator (or regualtor built in). Had another parts store bench test, it was bad, replaced w/reman alternator and all fixed!

Good to hear that.

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