There are three main steps behind replacing the alternator on the 1998 Chrysler Concorde. The first is disconnecting the battery cables for safety. Second, is depressing the belt tensioner to allow for the release of the drive belt. Finally the alternator can be unbolted from its bracket for replacement. If the drive belt, idler pulley and tensioner are worn it would be an ideal time to replace this components as part of the install.
It's inside the alternator. If you haven't already done one (and evidently you haven't) it would probably be best for you to just replace the whole thing. Some special tools are required and it can get a little overwhelming for the first timer.
If you have it done by a dealer, probably around $200. The alternator itself can be purchased for about $80.00, but, if you don't know how to install it yourself you can expect to pay for an hour labor. Depending on the shop that can run from $50.00 to 100.00 per hour.
buy a belt, loosen the tensioner, replace belt
From what you describe, I wonder if your alternator or battery are going bad. I think I'd have them both checked at Auto Zone or Checker or the like. They'll probably check them free. I think it will be in the starter. When they start to wear out, heat causes them to quit functioning until the cool off for a few..... This is common in the Chrysler v-6. The smart key was an add-on option, but it still had a small chip in the key. If you have this option, there will be a small black or grey bump at the base of the metal part of the key.
With the engine running, test the voltage of the battery using a voltmeter. You SHOULD be getting anywhere from 13.5 to 14.5 volts if the alternator is functioning properly. Turn on the headlights and rear window defroster and make sure you can hold the voltage level (you'll need someone to keep the engines at about 2000RPM's. If the alternator isn't producing sufficient voltage, you either have a faulty alternator or the replacement was not connected properly.
I'm getting 24.5 MPG in my 98 Concorde
Nippondenso ER/IF 120 Amp, 12 Volt, CW, 6-Groove Pulley Used On (2001-98) Chrysler Concorde 2.7L(2001-98) Dodge Intrepid 2.7L Mitsubishi ER/IF 130 Amp, 12 Volt, CW, 6-Groove Pulley Used On (2001-99) Chrysler 300, LHS 3.5L(2001-98) Chrysler Concorde 3.2L(2001-98) Dodge Intrepid 3.2L(2001-00) Dodge Intrepid 3.5L Nippondenso ER/IF 90 Amp, 12 Volt, CW, 6-Groove Pulley Used On (1996-93) Chrysler Concorde 3.3L(1997-93) Chrysler Concorde, LHS 3.5L(1996-94) Chrysler New Yorker 3.5L(1997-93) Dodge Intrepid 3.3L, 3.5L(1997-93) Eagle Vision 3.3L, 3.5L(1997) Plymouth Prowler
I'd have those looked at while your car still stops
Top rear.
I have a 98 2.7, its capacity, with the filter, is 5.5 quarts
There are 4, one before and one after each catalytic converter in the exhaust.
I have a 98 Concorde. My backup lights stopped working and I had my independent garage mechanic check it out while working on another problem and he told me the switch is internal,inside the transmission housing. I didn't pursue it futher. I'm not about to have them tear into the transmission just to replace a simple switch. Another example of Chrysler's wonderful engineering.
Remove the instrument bezel.
Remove serpentine belt, remove three bolts ,an 2 wires. The alternator will pull up off the motor to remove. Put new alternator in replace bolts, replace wires, an replace the serpentine belt..
HAVE YOU CONSIDERED THE BATTERY MAY HAVE A DEAD CELL AND CANNOT HOLD A CHARGE? IS THE ALTERNATOR INFACT PUTTING OUT ENOUGH VOLTAGE TO PROVIDE THE BATTERY WITH A CHARGE, APPROX. 13 TO 14 VOLTS.
It is located on the rear valve cover to the rear of the alternator
Anything is possible, but that would take more work than the car would be worth.