Alternator Battle...
 

On the '90 560SEL, I'm stumped on how to get the thing off. I wrestled the tensioner bolt enough to get it to turn a "scosh" but no where near enough to move the alt and release the tension to be able to get the belt off - PB Blaster overnight and I'll try again after work today... I'm guessing it needs to turn a bunch counter clockwise to loosen, correct? :confused:

The bigger problem: the top mounting bolt can't be completely pulled out because of the fan shroud - does the shroud have to come off? If so, how do you remove it? I can't believe I need to remove the radiator to do so?

Anybody been there?

P.S. - I just want to put in a new regulator but can't get to that because of the oil filter housing... and yes, I spent a couple of hours searching here (and at b'world).

Regards,
Kevin

Been there done that many times.

Loosen the fan shroud and it should move out of the way.

The adjusting bolt should move the alternator enough to release the belt. Sounds like you don't have all the bolts on the alternator loose allowing it to pivot freely.

It is possible to get the regulator off without removing anything else. Use a right angle tip screwdriver to get at the screws. Done it many times.

I'm thinking the an alternator replacement shouldn't be too hard for someone with minimal mechanical skills. Am I right? I may need to replace the one on my daughter's car. Would you typically replace the voltage regulator at the same time?

Didn't think...
 

...to try moving shroud sideways (if that's what you meant):o

I had the top bolt and the lower right mounting bolt pulled out of their respective threads (that's when I encountered the fan shroud conflict)

Regulator screws appear to be 1990 originals (and the car spent some time in the Pennsylvania region and has some "rust welds" on some fasteners) - and don't budge. I need to get it on the bench to apply enough torque and not strip the heads.

Alt removal will provide an opportunity to do a little cleaning in the area while I'm at it...

Thanks Dave, I'll report back...

Or just push on the shroud - it will give way enough to get the bolt out. It is flexible to a point.

I understand about the corrosion issue. Yea it has to come out to do it right.

What part of Houston are you in?

Push I shall...
 

I'm north - office near Bush, live off 2978 on back side of The Woodlands.

Dee8 - alt replacement isn't (supposed to be - I have corrosion issues making mine a lttle harder) difficult. If you replace the alt, it will have a new regulator on it. Usually though, its just the voltage reg that is worn out (carbon brushes - like pencil lead). Just screws into the back of the alternator.

Regards gents, I shall report when victory is mine...:D

Kevin

Holy Frijoles!
 

Price comparison for volt. regulator:

Thought I'd give the dealer 2 miles from here a crack at it - $96 & 2 or 3 business days.

$35 at BAP GEON (import parts retailer) available this p.m. 10 miles from here.

Available for $30 - $35 on line (3 to 5 days)

I'm surprised the "Auto Zone" types here didn't have it - seems common enough; simple 80 amp Bosch alt that is/was probably used in a a bunch of cars...

Kevin