How to Remove the Alternator in a Dodge RAM 4.7

In 2002, Dodge completely redesigned the Ram lineup while retaining the big rig appearance truck enthusiasts enjoyed. The 2002 model year also ushered in two new engines for the Ram: the 215-horsepower, 3.7-liter V-6, and a 235-horsepower, 4.7-liter V-8. Both engines still are a part of the Ram 1500, at the time of publication. Replacing the alternator on all model years from 2002 is the same process.

Instructions

Removal

1

Loosen the nut on the pinch bolt on the negative battery cable end using a combination wrench. Pull the negative cable off the battery and set it aside to prevent accidental reconnection.

2

Draw a diagram of the serpentine belts routing through all of the pulleys.

3

Find the serpentine belt tensioner pulley on the passengers side of the engine. Place a ratchet and socket on the nut in the center of the tensioner pulley, and rotate it counterclockwise to relieve tension from the belt. Hold the tensioner in place.

4

Pull the serpentine belt off the pulleys and out of the engine compartment. Inspect the belt for defects, including cracks, frays, splits or signs of excessive aging. Replace the belt with a new one if any defects exist.

5

Allow the tensioner pulley to rotate clockwise slowly until it is back in its resting position. Remove the ratchet and socket.

6

Pull upward on the plastic cover over the battery wire connected to the alternator. Remove the nut securing the wire to the alternator using a ratchet and socket, and remove the wire. Press and hold the unlocking button on the wiring harness on the rear of the alternator, then unplug the wiring harness.

7

Remove the bolt on the rear, drivers side of the alternator using a ratchet and socket. Remove the two bolts on the front of the alternator. Pull the alternator from the vehicle.

Installation

8

Set the new alternator on the engine and hand-thread its three bolts. Tighten the three alternator bolts to 40 foot-pounds with a torque wrench and socket.

9

Plug the wiring harness back into its receptacle on the rear of the alternator. Guide the battery wire back onto its stud on the alternator and hand-thread its retaining nut. Tighten the retaining nut to 9 foot-pounds.

10

Position the drive over all of the pulley, except the belt tensioner. Rotate the belt tensioner belt pulley counterclockwise with a ratchet and socket, line up the belt with the tensioner pulley, and allow the tensioner pulley to rotate clockwise slowly until it holds tension on the drive belt. Remove the ratchet and socket.

11

Reinstall the negative battery cable and tighten the pinch bolts nut until the negative battery cable end is snug.