How do you replace the alternator on a 1998 Nissan Maxima V6 3000?

Answer 1

I have had to do this twice, and the easiest way is to go from underneath. Start by removing the Air conditioning unit. Don't unscrew the Top hose on the A/C compressor unit unless you drained the fluid out (I did this and had quite a show). You can usually push the A/C Unit to the side after you remove the four long bolts and work on the Alternator, that way it is much much easier. The mounting bolt is the trickiest part, especially the flat one that goes on the top. (Once I sat out in the yard pushing the alternator upward thinking it needed to mount on the upper portion of the engine, then I noticed the grooves in the mounting bolt hard a sharp edge etched into it.) That's when I discovered a kind of indented part of the engine block next to the alternator (it had the sharp edge (a sharp corner) ). After that it was a lot easier to figure out that annoying Bracket or whatever you want to call it.

The Last mounting bolt for the alternator is behind the AC Unit you have to move it out of the way, or you will never be able to remove the alternator.

After all the bolts have been removed, it is easier to remove the alternator from the top. Someone needs to push the AC Unit up and towards the engine.

ANSWER

Get the car up on jack stands supported on the control arm pivots.

Remove the front air intake.

Remove the cooling fan.

Remove the horn.

Remove the splash guard in the right side wheel well.

Remove the right side front splash guard.

Take off the serpentine belt. Remove the tensioner pulley.

Dismount the A/C compressor but do not open the hose connections on it.

Hang the A/C compressor by a Coat hangar wire so it's away from the alternator.

Take out the two bolts on the top of the alternator top bracket.

Remove the alternator pivot bolt.

Take the alternator out from the top.

Put in the new alternator and get it all back in place and TIGHT.