Alternator problem/recplacement/procedure

[supersnake83]

Hi everyone.

I am a regular in the j30 nico forum, but my mother has a 2002 altima sedan.

Recently my mother's car lights would flicker/pulse when driving. I immediately suspected the problem to be the altlernator. I tried the disconnect the battery test and her car did shut off after I disconnected the positive battery terminal connector (it did the same when I disconnected the negative as well).

If this test is conclusive, I guess, my mother will need an alternator. If my results could be wrong can someone correct me.

Assuming that my mom does need an alternator, can someone post some easy to follow directions for replacing/removing/re-installing the current alternator.

I probably will just take the current one out and have it rebuilt. I did the same with my 93 J30 and the rebuilt was fine. I only spent $80.00.

If anyone can post some easy to follow directions, thanks.

Geoff.

[supersnake83]

Anyone?

I know that this job may be easy since the alternator is on top, but I am not 100% sure on the procedure.

Is someone is willing to help with directions, that would be great.

Thanks.

Geoff.

[SHIFT_COUPE]

Geoff, while I don't have first hand experience in replacing an alternator I believe it to be a fairly straight forward process. I can email you the FSM for your Altima if that will help you. Is it a 2.5 or 3.5?

[supersnake83]

It is a 2002 2.5.

It does look straight forward, but I know with the older models, they did not have the black casing that surrounds the top of the engine that is on the newer models. That is really my biggest concern.

If you will have the time to post the FSM directions, that would be fantastic and greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Geoff.

[nissantech06]

Not to be a smart-***, but replacing the alternator on either engine isn't fun. On the 3.5L it requires disconnecting the A/C compressor and evacuating the system down. It's a 2 hour job. Not sure about the 2.5L, but I think the procedure is similar (I haven't done a 2.5L in a while). You might not be able to do it yourself.

[supersnake83]

Thanks for your recommendation and your insight--that is why I come to Nicoclub first.

However, if someone who is very familiar with the 2.5 feels the same way, then I will take your advise and have a professional do the job.

In the mean time, I will pay a mechanic $20.00 to test the electrical system to see what the real problem is.

If anyone still has time and knows how to, directions would be great.

Thanks,

Geoff.