LS1TECH - Camaro and Firebird Forum Discussion

Camaro and Firebird: How to Replace Alternator

The alternator is the central power unit of your car's charging system. This article will show you how to install a new one.

By Jared Hammond - March 14, 2016

This article applies to the Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird (1990-2002).

If you've noticed that you've been losing power while on the road, or having problems with a continually flat battery, there is a good chance that there is something wrong with your alternator. You may also need to install an upgraded alternator if you've been installing a lot of electrically power hungry mods. Installation is pretty straightforward, but it's getting the thing out that is the trick.

Camaro and Firebird How to Replace Alternator

Materials Needed

  • Replacement alternator
  • Ratchet with socket set and extensions
  • Breaker bar
  • Long needle nose pliers
  • Jack and jack stands

Step 1 – Disconnect the battery and lift the car

Disconnect the negative (black) terminal on the battery. Then lift the car with a jack and set it on jack stands.

CAMARO FIREBIRD LS1 ENGINE ALTERNATOR REPLACE REMOVE HOW TO
Figure 1. Lift the car and set it on jack stands.

Step 2 – Remove the old alternator

Loosen the tensioner pulley near the top of the engine. Then get underneath the engine and slip off the serpentine belt from around the alternator pulley. If you can't remember the last time you replaced your serpentine belt, consider now a good time to do so.

  • CAMARO FIREBIRD LS1 ENGINE ALTERNATOR REPLACE REMOVE HOW TO
    Figure 2. Loosen the tensioner bolt.
  • CAMARO FIREBIRD LS1 ENGINE ALTERNATOR REPLACE REMOVE HOW TO
    Figure 3. Remove the serpentine belt from the alternator.

Disconnect the wiring harness and the battery cable from the back. Now start loosening the two 13mm bolts on the back of the alternator and the 15mm bolt on the front. Be prepared to catch it when you remove the last bolt, because the exciter wire is still attached and could break if the alternator falls. Quickly disconnect the exciter wire. Now the trick is to pull the alternator forward until it clears the bracket and the sway bar, then lower it down. It may take some twisting and turning to remove it, but eventually it should come loose.

  • CAMARO FIREBIRD LS1 ENGINE ALTERNATOR REPLACE REMOVE HOW TO
    Figure 4. Disconnect the wiring harness.
  • CAMARO FIREBIRD LS1 ENGINE ALTERNATOR REPLACE REMOVE HOW TO
    Figure 5. Disconnect the battery wire.
  • CAMARO FIREBIRD LS1 ENGINE ALTERNATOR REPLACE REMOVE HOW TO
    Figure 6. Unbolt the alternator from the bracket.

Pro Tip

If you're having trouble removing the alternator, you can also try removing the bracket, which is held by a pair of bolts. Removing this should give you enough room to remove the alternator.

Step 3 – Install the new alternator

Move the new alternator into position. Connect the exciter wire, then thread in the bolts by hand. Tighten the bolts down and then reconnect the wires on the back of the alternator. Slip the serpentine belt over the alternator pulley, then tighten the tensioning bolt. Reconnect the battery and start the car. Pay careful attention to how the new alternator is running. Listen for any sounds from the alternator and check the voltmeter in the dash for any fluctuations. If it checks out okay, then you're all done.

Featured Video: LS1 Alternator Replacement

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