Replaced my first Alternator; Dodge Stratus

[ltslimjim]

Well, it wasn't as challenging as I thought it would be. A few years ago I was just learning about how to do my own oil changes.

I would have considered learning how to "reman" it myself. It recently began making noise and the bearing/brushes probably both need replacement/servicing. The 'battery' light came on a few days ago after a mechanic/friend said the sound was the alternator itself(an idler pulley was also replaced that began making noise).

Long-story short, I'm glad I saved on the labor, as it didn't take long, even though I wasn't necessarily trying to go really fast.

This was done on my Dodge Stratus, that I've mentioned before in the Oil Additives section as well, with it's current fill of AMSOIL Signature Series and LubroMoly MoS2 additive. I've sold the car as of today to my sister and needed to make sure she could take it for good by Friday so the reman of an alternator wouldn't do. Ironically, I bought a reman unit to replace the one I pulled and it's all back together. I test drove for a half hour on the highway and then returned home. Limited lifetime warranty, no 90 day deal etc. So, if it has problems within 3 years I can bring it back.

Thanks for allowing me to share my experience.

 

[Texan4Life]

WIN!

 

[MONKEYMAN]

On my Saturn you have to remove the passenger wheel to access the alternator. Must be nice to have an easy replacement. What brand alternator did you buy? I have heard hit and miss stories with remanufactered ones.

 

[Boomer]

There is a difference between "rebuilt" and "remanufactured". Apparently, the former just replace the parts that failed leaving in everything else that is old. "Reman" is supposed to do just that..replace everything that is bad and a list of other parts as well. You made the right choice going reman.

 

[The_Jeff]

Yeah it starts with oil changes then you get hooked wrenching!

 

[ltslimjim]

lol, thanks for the replies. Definitely hooked on doing car work, for now.

I got an Oreilly house brand, with a limited lifetime warranty. Ultima brand. It wasn't that hard to do, just wriggled the old one out and reinstalled the 'new'. Used a permanent marker to etched where the belt tension was set to prior to removal of the old. No problems so far. I would have gone with a Remy from Advance for about $10, but they were out of stock and I had to get one.

Reman unit:

http://www.oreillyauto.com/site/c/detail/ULT1/15847.oap?pt=01468&ppt=C0330