Safety First!
* Disconnect the negative battery terminal before starting any work. This prevents accidental shorts and electrical shocks.
* Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris.
* Use jack stands to support the vehicle securely. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
Tools You'll Need:
* Socket wrench set (metric)
* Ratchet and extensions
* Wrenches (metric)
* Battery terminal cleaner
* Possibly a pulley removal tool (depending on the alternator design)
* New alternator (ensure it's the correct one for your Mustang's engine)
* Torque wrench (highly recommended)
* Gloves
* Shop rags or towels
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Locate the Alternator: The alternator is usually located on the front of the engine, near the bottom. Its position might vary slightly depending on the engine type.
2. Disconnect the Electrical Connections:
* Carefully disconnect the battery cable(s) from the alternator. Take note of their positions for reassembly. You might need to loosen a bolt or nut securing them.
* Unplug any other electrical connectors.
3. Remove the Belt:
* Loosen the alternator belt tensioner. This typically involves turning a bolt or using a special tool. The method varies greatly depending on your model. Consult your repair manual.
* Once tension is released, remove the belt from the alternator pulley.
4. Remove the Alternator Mounting Bolts:
* There are usually two or three bolts securing the alternator to the engine block or bracket. Carefully remove these bolts. They may be difficult to access due to their location and possible rust or corrosion.
5. Remove the Alternator:
* Carefully remove the alternator from its mounting location. It might be a little heavy.
6. Install the New Alternator:
* Install the new alternator in the reverse order of removal. Make sure it's properly seated and aligned with its mounting points.
7. Reinstall the Belt:
* Reinstall the alternator belt, ensuring proper routing over all the pulleys. Tighten the belt tensioner.
8. Reconnect the Electrical Connections:
* Reconnect the electrical connectors to the new alternator, matching them to their original positions.
9. Reconnect the Battery:
* Reconnect the negative battery cable.
10. Test:
* Start the engine and check the charging system voltage. It should be around 13.5 to 14.5 volts. Use a multimeter to check.
Important Considerations:
* Consult a repair manual: This is absolutely crucial. Generic instructions like these can't account for the variations between different 1999 Mustang models and engine types.
* Difficulty: This job can be challenging depending on your mechanical skills and access to the alternator. Some bolts might be difficult to reach.
* Pulley Removal: Some alternators may require a special pulley puller.
* Torque Specifications: Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specifications to avoid damage.
If you're not comfortable performing this repair yourself, it's best to take your Mustang to a qualified mechanic. Improper installation can lead to further damage or safety hazards.
