What size breaker bar?

[riccbhard]

Alternator is bad on a '91 Escort LX. What size breaker bar do I need to get the tensioner loose to loosen the belt?

Thanks!

[AzTumbleweed]

I use a 3/8th inch drive ratchet.

[riccbhard]

Cool because I have a 3/8in. drive ratchet laying right here

[riccbhard]

And I have more questions. How many screws are holding the alternator on and where are they? Also there is a little bracket screwed to the alternator bracket that seems to hold a A/C hose (A/C does not work anymore), how does that come off to get it out of the way?


And, Is there any specific torque for the screws on the alternator? If not, how tight?

Do I move the tensioner forward or back?

[AzTumbleweed]

The tensioner moves to the rear when you pull the ratchet towards you. I've never replaced my alternator. Has 263,000 miles on it! Yes, the black line is A/C (I think.) UNless it's power steering. Would go look at mine but it's dark!

[Nocturnall]

I usually go by if I REALLY have to pull on the ratchet to get the bolt off then put it back on as hard as I can without breaking it. Just look around the bracket and how it connects to the alternator, it's probably just a bolt into a threaded hole in the alt. Take it off and push it aside. Make sure to have the battery d/ced, I know in my firebird if you touch the back of the alt with a wrench you get a lil shock.