1. Safety First:
* Disconnect the negative battery cable. This is crucial to prevent electrical shocks and short circuits.
* Wear safety glasses.
2. Gather Tools and Parts:
* New alternator: Make sure you get the correct one for your Fiero's engine (2.0L or 2.8L).
* Wrench set (metric): You'll need various sizes, including those for the alternator mounting bolts and the battery terminal.
* Socket set (metric) with extensions and ratchet: This will provide better reach for some of the bolts.
* Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead): Possibly needed for various connections.
* Jack and jack stands: Safely supporting the car is essential.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
* Torque wrench: For tightening bolts to the manufacturer's specifications (this is important to avoid damage).
* Gloves: To protect your hands.
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster): This can help loosen stubborn bolts.
* Wire brush: To clean corrosion from battery terminals and alternator connections.
3. Accessing the Alternator:
* Raise and support the car safely: Use a jack and jack stands to lift the front of the car, and secure it with wheel chocks.
* Location: The alternator is typically located on the front of the engine, near the passenger side (depending on the engine). Consult your repair manual for the precise location.
* Remove related components (if necessary): This might involve removing the air cleaner assembly, some belts, or other components to gain better access to the alternator. Your repair manual will guide you through this.
4. Removing the Old Alternator:
* Disconnect the electrical connectors: Carefully unplug the wires connected to the alternator. Take pictures or make notes to remember where each wire goes.
* Remove the alternator belt: Use a belt tensioner tool (or the proper method described in your manual) to release tension on the belt and remove it from the alternator pulley.
* Remove the mounting bolts: Carefully remove the bolts securing the alternator to the engine. Penetrating oil may be helpful if the bolts are stuck.
* Lower the alternator: Carefully remove the alternator from its mounting position.
5. Installing the New Alternator:
* Clean the mounting surface: Clean any dirt or debris from the engine block where the alternator mounts.
* Install the new alternator: Carefully position the new alternator in its mounting position.
* Attach the mounting bolts: Securely tighten the mounting bolts to the manufacturer's specifications using a torque wrench.
* Reconnect the electrical connectors: Carefully reconnect the wires to the new alternator, ensuring they are securely fastened. Refer to your notes or pictures.
* Install the alternator belt: Install the alternator belt, ensuring it is properly routed around all the pulleys. Again, consult your repair manual for proper routing.
* Check tension: Make sure the belt tension is correct.
6. Final Checks:
* Lower the car safely: Carefully lower the car from the jack stands.
* Reconnect the negative battery cable.
* Start the engine: Check for any belt squealing or other unusual noises.
* Check the charging system: Use a multimeter to check the alternator's output voltage. It should be around 13.5-14.5 volts when the engine is running.
Important Considerations:
* Belt routing: Getting the belt routed correctly is crucial. Incorrect routing can lead to damage and premature belt failure. Your repair manual will have a diagram showing the correct routing.
* Torque specifications: Using the correct torque when tightening bolts is vital to prevent damage to the alternator and the engine. Always refer to your repair manual for the correct specifications.
* Electrical connections: Make sure all electrical connections are secure and corrosion-free.
This is a general guide. Always refer to a repair manual specific to your 1988 Pontiac Fiero for detailed, step-by-step instructions and diagrams. If you're not comfortable performing this repair yourself, take your car to a qualified mechanic. Improperly installing the alternator can cause damage to your vehicle's electrical system.
