Dumb Alternator Question

[colonelcobb]

Good Evening Fellow Windstar Lovers/Haters;

Have a good laugh at my expense. Here goes....It's time to replace a dead alternator. But for the life of me, I cannot figure how to release the multi-pin connector!

I have "pinched" every thing there is to pinch (hard), I've pried every thing there is to pry (gently) and the damned thing still won't let go!

Obviously, it's made to NOT release easily. Can anyone hyperlink me to a photo of the release proceedure?

ANY help would be GREATLY appreciated !

Sincerely,
The Colonel

[12Ounce]

I don't remember to be truthful.

But I will share a tip .... it usually helps to have the replacement component on hand. Then you can study the latch design on the recieving connector and act accordingly. Sometimes we have to "lift" the latch tab instead of "pinch" ....

I last week removed/installed the alternater and support bracket ... for access to the ac compressor. It can't be too difficult!

[phil-l]

colenelcobb -

Here are pictures of my '00 Windstar alternator connector:

http://community.webshots.com/album/582587527rIcjqU

I'm able to remove the connector by pressing in on the side of the connector, and lifting up. If your connector has been in place for a long time, a squirt of WD-40 might help it break loose without damage.