Alternator Failure

[jslindst]

Just had to replace my battery in my 2000 996. I noticed the voltmeter on the dash going lower and lower as I was trying to get home until the ABS and Airbag waring lights came on. Fortunately I made it home. The Battery light never came on during this time. I installed a new battery, but it looks like the alternator may have failed. The voltmeter on the dash is reading less than 12V when the car is running. I also confirmed this with a digital voltmeter at the battery while the car was running. The Battery light is still off. All fuses are good also. Does anyone know any tricks or short cuts to remove the alternator so I can have it tested on a stand-alone tester before I spend $600-1200 to replace it. I was able to everything out of the way and get both mounting bolts removed but cannot get the alternator past the lower bracket. I think the lower bracket is part of the cooling system and would prefer not to remove it and have coolant leak everywhere. If can give me so pointers I would greatly appreciate it.

Thanks,

Jeff

[1999Porsche911]

Just had to replace my battery in my 2000 996. I noticed the voltmeter on the dash going lower and lower as I was trying to get home until the ABS and Airbag waring lights came on. Fortunately I made it home. The Battery light never came on during this time. I installed a new battery, but it looks like the alternator may have failed. The voltmeter on the dash is reading less than 12V when the car is running. I also confirmed this with a digital voltmeter at the battery while the car was running. The Battery light is still off. All fuses are good also. Does anyone know any tricks or short cuts to remove the alternator so I can have it tested on a stand-alone tester before I spend $600-1200 to replace it. I was able to everything out of the way and get both mounting bolts removed but cannot get the alternator past the lower bracket. I think the lower bracket is part of the cooling system and would prefer not to remove it and have coolant leak everywhere. If can give me so pointers I would greatly appreciate it.

Thanks,

Jeff

Turn the alternator CLOCKWISE to clear everything.

[viper501]

....cannot get the alternator past the lower bracket. I think the lower bracket is part of the cooling system and would prefer not to remove it and have coolant leak everywhere. ...

It is and you will, if you remove it. And be sure to completely tighten the upper bolt or bad things can happen ... :censored:

[jslindst]

Guys,

I appreciate your help. i tried to rotate the alternator clockwise but cannot get it past the upper bracket(passenger side). Looks like I'll be dumping coolant everywhere to get this thing out. Not that big of a deal since I just got the 3rd Radiator Kit and need to install it as well as replace my thermostat and flush the cooling system.

Thanks again for you help,

Jeff

[1999Porsche911]

Guys,

I appreciate your help. i tried to rotate the alternator clockwise but cannot get it past the upper bracket(passenger side). Looks like I'll be dumping coolant everywhere to get this thing out. Not that big of a deal since I just got the 3rd Radiator Kit and need to install it as well as replace my thermostat and flush the cooling system.

Thanks again for you help,

Jeff

It can be a pain to get out, but can be done. I just removed mine this morning. Make sure that the right hand side pivot is below the bracket when removing and turn it clockwise to get out.

Removing the coolant cover will not cause you to lose too much coolant. Put a bucket under the engine and you will catch it all. (DO NOT REUSE) The gasket is reusable and should remain attached to the cover when it is removed, (10 mm socket)

[jslindst]

Thanks again. I take it your alternator just quit on you as well, if you are removing yours today. Hope you find a cheap replacement, I think retail is approx $1000 from the dealers for a new one, $300-400 for a rebuilt unit.

Jeff

[1999Porsche911]

Thanks again. I take it your alternator just quit on you as well, if you are removing yours today. Hope you find a cheap replacement, I think retail is approx $1000 from the dealers for a new one, $300-400 for a rebuilt unit.

Jeff

No. My alternator is fine. I just needed to get behind it to remove some unrelated plumbing.

[Scouser]

My understanding is that bleeding the coolant system is a real art. SO suggest you don't!