1. Gather Tools and Materials:
- Replacement alternator
- 10mm socket and wrench
- 15mm socket and wrench
- Flat-head screwdriver
- Pliers
- New alternator belt (optional)
2. Disconnect the Battery:
- Open the hood and disconnect the negative terminal of the battery using the 10mm wrench.
3. Remove the Alternator Belt:
- Locate the alternator belt near the front of the engine.
- Use the 15mm socket to loosen the bolt holding the tensioner pulley.
- Rotate the tensioner pulley to relieve the tension on the belt and remove it.
4. Remove the Electrical Connections:
- Locate the electrical connections on the alternator.
- Disconnect the electrical connectors by pressing down on the release tabs and pulling them off.
5. Remove the Mounting Bolts:
- Locate the two bolts holding the alternator in place.
- Use the 15mm socket to loosen and remove the mounting bolts.
6. Remove the Alternator:
- Gently lift the alternator up and out of the engine bay.
7. Install the New Alternator:
- Position the new alternator into place.
- Secure the alternator with the mounting bolts, hand-tightening them for now.
8. Reconnect Electrical Connections:
- Reattach the electrical connectors to the new alternator.
9. Reinstall the Alternator Belt:
- Place the new alternator belt on the pulleys.
- Use the 15mm socket to adjust the tensioner pulley and apply tension to the belt.
10. Tighten Mounting Bolts:
- Use the 15mm socket to tighten the alternator mounting bolts.
11. Reconnect the Battery:
- Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
12. Test the Alternator:
- Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes.
- Check if the battery indicator light on the dashboard turns off.
- Use a multimeter to test the voltage at the battery terminals. It should be around 14 volts when the engine is running.
Your 1995 Chevy Cavalier's alternator should now be successfully replaced.
