How do you replace the alternator on a 1997 Dodge Neon?

Answer 1

Changing the alternator on a 1996 Dodge Neon? First buy a repair book like a Haynes or Chiltons it will be worth the expense. Next brush up on your four letter words because this is not an easy job. Make sure there are no small children within earshot. Raise the vehicle so you can get under it. Remove the battery hook ups. Under the car remove the plastic splash guard (3 bolts, 1 plastic snap clip). Spray all bolts with a penetrant and let soak in. Remove the two electrical hook ups from the alternator. Loosen the adjustment bolt (back side top) of the alternator and remove the belt. Remove the lower and upper mounting bolts. Remove the 3 pivot mounting bracket bolts and the mounting bracket. You may have to tug and shimmy the alternator loose. It is very hard to see where some of the bolts are and even harder to get a wrench on some of them.

Remove the neg. battery cable then the wires from the altermator. Then remove the belt and the mounting bolts and then the altermator.

Take the passenger side wheel off and do your work from under the car,make sure you jack it up high and use jackstands for safety,it only took me 30 minutes and no four letter words...jeffbone