How to Install an Alternator in a Dodge B Series Van

So, your old van needs a new alternator? The bad news is that it might not be as easy to replace as in most vehicles, but the good news is that you're about to learn how.

Instructions

1

Park the van on a flat surface where you'll be able to work from outside, inside and underneath the vehicle. Open the hood and disconnect the battery.

2

Remove the engine cover inside the van and locate the old alternator, generally located right next to where the passenger's feet would go.

3

First disconnect the three wires connected to the back of the alternator. A screwdriver may be necessary.

4

From the outside of the van, reach under the hood with the proper socket wrench to loosen both of the bolts holding the alternator in place and remove the old alternator carefully. Be sure to keep the bolt shield cylinders for the new alternator, if there are any.

5

Putting the new alternator in is as simple as doing steps 1-4 in reverse, with one tricky exception: you're likely to find that your new alternator has a built-in bolt shield cylinder that will prevent the alternator from fitting onto the old-school mount. If this is the case, take the hack saw to the cylinder, making one cut through the middle, taking care not to saw into the alternator itself. If the cylinder does not come loose after being sawed in half, you may need to use a flathead screwdriver and needle nose pliers to pry it out of its snug fit.

6

Follow steps 1-4 in reverse to install the new alternator. You may need to adjust the movable "slide" section of the old mount with the help of sockets or wrenches to get the new alternator to fit.