How bad is it changing the alternator on a 2001 EX?
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How bad is it changing the alternator on a 2001 EX?
My lights dim too much and my line voltage drops down to 11.3 volts with the 1700 watts I am running in my system. I want to add a high output alternator but don't know if it is a PITA to do it and the belts while there or not at the 53k mile mark. I am getting older and have less tolerance for busted knuckles and things that don't go right so I was thinking about paying to have it done. Anyone do this?
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From: Macon GA
Rep Power: 301 i have taken mine off twice. the first time took about 2 hours off and on. the second time took half of that. its not difficult just be sure u follow the diy. i wouldnt pay someone to do it unless u just dont have time to.
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Rep Power: 0 Where is the DIY on that? If the shop would only charge two hours labor that is $104. That isn't too awfully bad.
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Rep Power: 0 I found that DIY. I may try the big 3 first before taking this on. I am running 1700 watts and so far it hasn't been terrible but I dip into the low 11's on volts when it is hitting hard. Reading the threads about the HO alternators makes me think twice about going that route rather than the 3 plus a battery.
Yes, it's an Acura EL
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For the first time you do it, have handy a copy of the service manual (there's a copy floating around somewhere) and of course a good ratchet set. You should be able to do it in a few hours for your first time. It gets easier very time you do it, I've had to do a few now.
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From: Ontario
Rep Power: 381 I could do it on 30 minutes. It's just foreign when it's new. Pull off the PS pump, pull it to the right (the wheel on the P/S pump should sit right over the red reservoir cap) Next the alt has a few bolts holding it on as well as the plug. The bolts you can get to with a ratchet but you'll need to pull the d/s wheel off to get to the bottom bolt as well as the tensioner bolt. You'll see a wingnut on the front of the alt for adjusting the belt. Easy as pie
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