I am attempting to get my 98 civic hatchback back on the road after it sat for a year because i couldnt get it to start. After playing around and getting it to start( it had no spark and i had to replace main relay) my battery light came on and when i checked the under the hood i saw the alternator drive belt had pretty much rotted off. I have purchased a replacement belt and when i went to loosen/remove the alternator pivot bolt it is so seized that it rounded off. My question is how do i safely remove this seized bolt, is it all one piece (nut head and bolt part) or is it in two pieces(separate nut and bolt). and where is best place to get new replacement pivot bolt?

First spray it with PB blaster or a similar penetrating lubricant to loosen the rust in and around the bolt, be sure to let it set for a few minutes. To get the now rounded bolt off, the simplest way would be to fit a slightly smaller 12 point socket or wrench over the bolt, hammer it on so it fits snugly and try at that. Getting a hold of the bolt with vise grips would also be a solution. As for finding a replacement, try the local hardware store, they might have a similar piece that fits, if not automotive machine shops would be the next stop.

Once you get the damaged bolt removed, I would try your local Honda dealer for a replacement bolt. I'm sure they have one in stock, but if not, should be able to order one for you. Good luck.

If the nut is siezed, the most of your probelm will be removing the pivot bolt. The pefect solution to this problem is a weld/ cuting torch. Heat the lower portion of the alternator until the pivot bolt breaks free. These are very difficult bolts to remove when siezed.