How to Remove a Commutator From an Escort

A commutator is an internal part of the alternator on the Ford Escort. The commutator is a switch inside the alternator which reverses the current of the rotor. This process of reversing the current direction in the motor produces torque for the engine. The alternator will not charge effectively if the commutator is not working. The Escort alternator must first be removed in order to access and remove the commutator. It takes approximately two hours to remove the commutator from the Ford Escort.

Instructions

1

Open the Escort's hood and remove the negative battery cable with an adjustable wrench.

2

Loosen the tension pulley bolt on the left hand side of the engine compartment with the socket set. Once loose, shove the pulley forward slightly and then slip the serpentine belt free from the engine.

3

Unplug the alternator's plastic wiring harness by hand.

4

Remove the alternator retaining bolts with the socket set. Lift the alternator up and out of the engine compartment.

5

Set the alternator on a work bench or other flat surface.

6

Attach a torx head socket to the ratchet and remove the torx head screws holding the voltage regulator in place. Lift the voltage regulator off and then take out the commutator by hand.