Now I have to install this Alternator

[djazzmo]

On a previous post I told you all about trying to get an alternator from Car Parts Wholsale. I got a lot of advice about how I should have bought a OEM instead of a rebuilt but money is funny right now so I am going ahead with the rebuild and hope for the best for now. BTW it took them a full 7 days before they shipped the parts (totally unacceptable in my opinion - they will not get my business again). It took another 7 days to arrive in my city. We had an ice storm so it took another 6 days before UPS would deliver. It will be another couple of days before it is warm enough to tackle this. Add another 7 days for the prior suppler (Parts Train - won't be using them again either) to figure out they didn't have the parts and I am well over 4 weeks to finally get to this point.

Ok I have replaced alternators on other cars so I thought I knew what I was getting into. Now I am looking at the FSM in detail and OMG. This looks like its going to be an all day job. I have to drain the coolant, remove the fan assembly and shroud, drain the fan motor.

I'll admit my skills are somewhat less than average at best, nowhere near the talent I see on this board. Don't laugh but I am a little intimidated by the job. Anybody got any advice? Anything goofy I need to watch out for? Any shortcuts?

[slybydesignq45t]

If you want my 100% honest opinion, if this looks like its going to be a tough gig, try and find an indie that will allow you to watch and have them do it for $200 max. I know it is tempting to try it yourself, but from what you described you may want to lean on caution and have it done right. On the G50 it is extremely easy to change, but on a 2002 it may not be that easy. If your really bent on doing it yourself, then give yourself plenty of time. Seeing that you have the FSM you should be straight, plus the extra knowledge learned will go along way down the line. Tools tools tools....make sure you have all the right stuff handy....

[Trumpkin]

drain the fan motor.

after reading this statement-better have someone else do it.

[Q45tech]

I almost never do my own parts replacement. I just enjoy the diagnostic part not the actual work, leaving it to those that do it everyday.

[djazzmo]

after reading this statement-better have someone else do it.

Ok that's cute. You caught me . I meant the fan fluid reservoir tank.

So now is there any advice?

[Trumpkin]

I almost never do my own parts replacement. I just enjoy the diagnostic part not the actual work, leaving it to those that do it everyday.

I'm surprised. Doing it is most of the fun!

[Drake57]

[QUOTE=djazzmo](Parts Train - won't be using them again either)..QUOTE]

Ditto my experience with them (not for Infi parts) - No one ever said it was a fast train - they make IOS look like a speeding bullet.

[Drake57]

PS ***Disconnect the battery*** first of all!

[maxnix]

I'm surprised. Doing it is most of the fun!

Not an alternator, and certainly without a lift!

[djazzmo]

Not an alternator, and certainly without a lift!

Why would you need a lift for the alternator? Doesn't it come out from the top?

[maxnix]

On a VK, probably. On the VH45DE, they hid it real well.

Weird you would need an alternator so soon.

[djazzmo]

On a VK, probably. On the VH45DE, they hid it real well.

Weird you would need an alternator so soon.

I thought the same thing. Others on this board say they got over 200K on their OEM alternator. My car is just over 103K but I had it checked after it showed all the classic symptoms like the traction control and VDC shutting off after driving a few miles. This has gotten progressively worst and now I can see the lights starting to flicker on the few occasions that I have been forced to venture out after dark.

[Q45tech]

I keep pointing out that the period from 1990-1995 was the most reliable mechanical and electro mechanical era for every auto manufacturer. After 1995 electronics was used to replace mechanical robustness.Computer software allowed cost reduction by running closer to ragged edge of design.

Almost every 97-99 alternator has been recalled and replaced at least once due to extra heat from top mounting vs relatively cool bottom of engine...............heat rises in traffic.

Who in right mind would top mount an alternator.....................kind of like ZR1 and LS400-430 mounting starter under plenum.

Newer is only better while still in warranty.

Longevity of used cars is much of the problem in the crash of new car sales as 3-6 year old used cars seem ok to former new car buyers.

[NightRiderQ45]

On a VK, probably. On the VH45DE, they hid it real well.

Weird you would need an alternator so soon.

Yeah, it's crazy how the "all mighty" OEM alternator needs to be replaced.

[maxnix]

Who in right mind would top mount an alternator.....................kind of like ZR1 and LS400-430 mounting starter under plenum.

Or under known-to-fail power steering pumps like Lexus, thus doubling the cost of a failed PS pump.
Modified by maxnix at 3:34 PM 2/6/2009

[Q45tech]

LS Power steering pump fails from lack of PS fluid mainteance too many rely on turkey baster exchanges without a chemical solvent flush. The filter screen plugs up from degraded PS fluid and starves the pump wearing it out fast. Proper T3 mainteance makes them last forever if caught in time unfortunately too many LS stay with dealers until it is too late.

I believe we have changed hundreds and hundreds.

[qship96]

Dennis, that comment probobly caused Brian to sprout wood!

[maxnix]

LS Power steering pump fails from lack of PS fluid mainteance too many rely on turkey baster exchanges without a chemical solvent flush. The filter screen plugs up from degraded PS fluid and starves the pump wearing it out fast. Proper T3 mainteance makes them last forever if caught in time unfortunately too many LS stay with dealers until it is too late.

I believe we have changed hundreds and hundreds.

Mr. Toyoda say "You supposed to buy new Lexus after 100,000 miles, gaijin."