Replace an Alternator on an Aztec
The Pontiac Aztec uses a belt-driven alternator to power the engine and accessories. This alternator can wear out or be damaged. You can replace it by removing the belt and unbolting it from the mounts. The average backyard mechanic can replace the alternator in an Aztec in about 30 minutes.
Instructions
1. Disconnect the battery from the Aztec by turning the positive terminal nut counterclockwise. Pull the terminal from the post and set it aside.
2. Press the tension pulley arm firmly to loosen the belt, then slide it from underneath the idle pulley wheel. Release the tension arm and the belt will have enough slack to come off of the alternator pulley. The belt can remain loose in the engine, and goes back in place easier if not fully taken out.
3. Disconnect the alternator from the wiring harness of the Pontiac by turning the primary output terminal nut counterclockwise, then removing the ring terminal from the bolt. Set it aside, away from the unit.
4. Hold the alternator's mount bolts by the head with the socket wrench and turn the mount nuts counterclockwise. With the nuts off, the bolts will slide out of the mount arms. As the last bolt slides out, the alternator will drop and can be removed from the engine.
5. Replace the alternator and position it into the mount arms, sliding the bolts through the arms and alternator. Secure the mount nuts by turning them clockwise. Reconnect the alternator's ring terminal. Wrap the belt around the alternator's pulley wheel (make sure the grooves are correctly positioned), then press the tension pulley and slide the belt back under the . Let go of the arm and the belt will tighten to the correct tension. Reconnect the battery by turning the positive terminal bolt clockwise.
Tags: pulley wheel, Alternator Aztec, alternator pulley, belt will, idle pulley, idle pulley wheel, mount arms
