Hi Everyone,

first time ever changing out an alternator. Got everything out alright and cleaned up & ready for the new one, only thing is I can’t get the new one into the top bracket, there seems to be this small metal piece inhibiting it from going in. Anyone have any suggestions?!

This is the top bracket, old one doesn’t fit back in there either, not sure what I’m doing wrong but I’m sure I’m missing something obviously!


This is the small metal piece that seems to be preventing it from sliding in

 

You posted this same question in two different generation sub-forums... what YEAR and MODEL vehicle do you have ?

 

Hi, yes sorry! Did not mean to post twice. New to forum and couldn’t figure out how to delete original post in wrong location!

I have a 2004 Civic coupe 1.7 manual ex vtec. I was able to get The alternator into the mounting bracket (figured out I needed to tap in the bushing on the side) but any tips on determining correct belt tension? Everything I’ve been reading says about a quarter inch play

 

1/4" play will work pretty well... the practical answer is "Just slightly tighter than what makes it squeak". This provides the least amount of stress on the bearings within your accessories.

 

awesome! Thanks much!