How to Replace the Alternator on a 2001 Dodge Intrepid
by Jonathan Ryan
If your car's alternator is malfunctioning, it may stall and stop charging the battery. A faulty alternator can also damage the car's battery. The alternator in the 2.7L model of the 2001 Dodge Intrepid must be removed from below the engine; this task will take about an hour to complete. In models with larger engines, you should only need half an hour to replace the alternator. Alternator shops will repair an alternator or sell you a new or rebuilt replacement. Replacements are also available at most auto parts shops.
2.7L Engine Alternator Replacement
Step 1
Unhook the battery. Remove the negative cable first, then the positive one.
Step 2
Lift the front end of the car, using the jack, and place it on jack stands. Refer to your owner's manual for a placement diagram--they are in an unusual location for the 2001 Dodge Intrepid.
Step 3
Remove the plastic splash guard from the underside of the engine. It is held in place by several bolts.
Step 4
Unbolt the transmission cooler, then move it out of the way. Don't remove the hoses--just the bolts.
Step 5
Remove the brace that holds up the radiator. Use a jack stand to hold up the radiator.
Step 6
Loosen the adjustment T-bolt and pivot bolt on the alternator, but don't remove them. Remove the belt.
Step 7
Unscrew the nut that holds the battery cable to the alternator, then remove the cable. Unplug the other electrical connector, as well.
Step 8
Unbolt and remove the alternator.
Step 9
Replace the alternator. The steps are the reverse of the removal procedure. Torque the nut on the battery cable to 90 in-lb. Torque the mounting and pivot bolts to 40 ft. lb.
3.2L & 3.5L Engines Alternator Replacement
Step 1
Unhook the battery. Remove the negative cable first, then the positive one.
Step 2
Unbolt the upper radiator support and remove it.
Step 3
Loosen the mounting and pivot bolts on the alternator, but don't completely remove them.
Step 4
Remove the belt--loosening the bolts should have relieved the tension.
Step 5
Unplug the connectors from the alternator. A nut holds the battery cable in place.
Step 6
Unbolt the alternator and pull it out.
Step 7
Install the replacement part in the reverse order of the removal procedure. The battery cable nut should be torqued to 85 in. lb., and the mounting and pivot bolts should be torqued to 40 ft. lb.
References
- "MOTOR Auto Repair Manual, Vol. 1;" MOTOR Information Systems; 2003
Tips
- Never work on the electrical system without first disconnecting the battery.
Things You'll Need
- Jack
- 3 jack stands (for 2.7L engine)
- Socket wrench
- Socket set, metric
- Torque wrench
Warnings
- Ask your alternator shop if you can get a discount for trading in the old part.
Writer Bio
In 2009, Jonathan Ryan began writing design documents describing digital marketing promotions for clients such as Heinz Ketchup and Kellogg's. His work also appears on eHow. In addition to working with all things computer-related, he has experience with home improvement and auto repair. Ryan holds a Master of Science in computer science from Western Michigan University.
