overcharging alternator - need to install a new one

[endisforever]

I have a 93 Bonneville and the alternator is overcharging so I am going to have to put in a new one. I am pretty car-illiterate and I've never installed or done any work on my car. I usually just send it to the auto shop. I was wondering how hard it is to install an alternator, and if it would be somewhat easy for someone who isn't experienced. If someone could give me some instructions on what to do that would be great. Thanks.

[Aubie]

Hi Endisforever,
To replace your Alt is very straight forward and not all that difficult with standard hand tools, i.e. sockets, wrenches etc.
First: disarm your theftlock radio as you are going to need to remove the Negitive battery terminal.
Second: Remove the Negitive battery terminal
Third: Remove the plastic engine cover that says "3800". It just has small palstic taps to pry/press out of the way, you'll just need your fingers for this.
Fourth: Standing on the passenger side of your car and looking at the engine start at the Alt and trace the Serpentine belt to the left and down to the frist pulley you come to, that is theTensioner pulley and you can see a bolt head in the center that a 11/16 inch standard or a 19 MM metric socket will fit. You may be able to use a rachet on the socket but i would recommend a breaker bar. You may also be able to use a 19MM Wrench. There isn't a tremendous amount of tension on the pulley but it will take a just little bit effort of counter clockwise rotation to release the tension on the belt that you can then slip it off the Alt.
Fifth: There a just a couple of long bolts to remove to take the Alt. off and then remove(slide) the small rubber/plastic "boot" covering the the small battery wire on the back side of the Alt and remove that Wire.
Sixth: Put in the new Alt and (attach small battery wire first) then put everything back in reverse order.
If you have the new Alt on hand it should take less than an hour. I hope this helps.
Aubie