Alternator? - Toyota 4Runner Forum

colby4runner · 12-29-2008, 01:36 AM

I'm pretty sure/positive that my alternator is shot. There's a grinding/hissing coming from it, the engine and everything else sounds fine and the battery charge and ABS warning lights come on.

How difficult is changing my own alternator? do I need any special tools? how does the belt come off? is anyone willing to give a general rundown on the replacement steps after disconnecting the battery power, and unhooking the wires from the alternator?

colby4runner · 12-29-2008, 01:37 AM

BTW, it is a '97

jharris2 · 12-29-2008, 01:52 PM

I've not replaced an alternator on a 4Runner, but on other vehicles it's been generally easy to do. The steps go something like this:

1. Disconnect battery.

2. Disconnect wiring harness from alternator.

3. Remove drive belt from alternator (may require loosening the alternator if there is no tensioner on the system).

4. Remove alternator.

5. Installation is reverse of the above steps.

6. Test to ensure everything works OK.

Hope that helps.

killing4runners · 09-14-2020, 06:47 AM

replaced altinator, still no run after battery dies. gauges no longer work. hel p me plz

thennen · 09-14-2020, 07:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jharris2

I've not replaced an alternator on a 4Runner, but on other vehicles it's been generally easy to do. The steps go something like this:

1. Disconnect battery.

2. Disconnect wiring harness from alternator.

3. Remove drive belt from alternator (may require loosening the alternator if there is no tensioner on the system).

4. Remove alternator.

5. Installation is reverse of the above steps.

6. Test to ensure everything works OK.

Hope that helps.

This ^^^ Videos/tips are easy to find on Youtube, this forum, etc.

Plus, when the alternator is out, look at the brushes - they may be worn to nothing and you may be hearing that. Removing/replacing the brush assembly once the alternator is out is a 10-minute job. You can find instructions on that pretty easily, too.

Best wishes!

CrudRunner · 04-19-2021, 01:41 PM

Just replaced stock alternator with the Grand Vitara unit DENSO 2100461, now have stock Denso which works, but produces too low a charge, triggers battery light, won't fully charge battery. Happy with upgrade. Anyone in NorCal want a free Alternator? If it needs be shipped, that's on you.

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