99 Accord EX V6 Alternator Change

[flying1010]

I am about ot change my 99 Accord V6 alternator. Any advice out there? It looks relatively simple, but then, that's when it gets goofy.

[mpumas]

Why are you changing a 99 Accord alternator?
The alternator should last at least 100k.

[wflgeorge]

I just got finished (today) changing the alternator in my 2000 Accord LX V6. I did it without instructions, but it would help you to get a few tips. You should have 10mm, 12mm, 14mm wrenches and a small pliers. First disconnect the battery. Carefully disconnect the plug-in harness and unscrew the power cable from the alternator. Remove the fan box that is attached to the radiator in front of the alternator. If you don't remove the fan box, there is no way to remove the old alternator, as I learned the hard way! I think my fan assembly had 2 plug-in harnesses and harness-holders attached to it, 2 10mm bolts holding it from the top and 1 10mm bolt near the bottom (center). When I removed the wiring harnesses and 3 bolts, I was able to slide my fan box straight up and out of there. (I also had disconnected the upper radiator hose but that was probably unnecessary) Next there is a tension pulley which holds the belt on the alternator (not the pulley on the alternator itself, but the pulley below the alternator and attached to an arm). If you use a 14mm wrench on the bolt head in the center of that pulley, you can push the pulley back towards the windshield (it has a spring in its arm) and take the belt off your alternator. There were 2 bolts holding the alternator, 12mm and 14mm. Take them off and your alternator is free. Then bolt your new alternator in good before you put the belt back on. With that belt tension arm, you don't have as much hassle getting the belt back to correct tension like some older cars because its automatic - very cool! Hope this helps you!

[flying1010]

I'm Changing it because the bearing is going on it... starting to whine like crazy... $450 through dealer.

[mpumas]

Check autozone, Kragens etc. for a rebuild. They may be cheaper and guaranteed for as long as you own the car. When installing don't tighten belt too tight. Super tight belts take out bearings.

[flying1010]

Roger... thanks, Autozone running about $120 with core.. will be selling the car this spring anyhow, so I need to get it to May