How do you replace the alternator on a 1989 Ford Thunderbird?

Answer 1

I'm not sure if you have a 3.8 or the 5.0, but I've got a 1995 4.6 V8 T-Bird that I just changed the alternator on. It's quite easy and you should be able to do it in 30 minutes or less. First, disconnect the positive battery terminal and make sure it remains disconnected until you have bolted everything back in and put the belt back in place. Loosen and remove the belt from the alternator pulley by applying torque to the belt tensioner pully. There are 3 bolts that you have to undo. One on the top rear and two at the bottom. Make sure to also remove the bolt that attaches the positive lead to the top of the alternator. Also unclip the negative lead and ground clips. Doing all this should allow you to remove the alternator. Put the new alternator into its place, bolt it in and remember to plug the clips as well as bolt on the positive lead to the top of the unit. Put the belt back in place and reconnect the positive battery lead you disconnected at the beginning of the process. Start the car and listen for any strange squeaks or rattling. Keep in mind that the bearings of the new alternator will not be broken in yet, so they may whine for a little while after starting (at least mine did). That should be it, and I take no responsibility if you screw anything up.