I need to replace the alternator on 89 Integra RS. By looking at the alternator from top and bottom, it doesn't appear to be easy to remove the bolts and ultimately take it out. The battery light and headlight symbol stayed on for 3 weeks and I ignored and finally the car refused to start. The alternator is generating < 6 volts.

I'm looking for guidance and tricks on folks who have done this before

1. Is it easier to get it out from the bottom? If so, in addition to the driver side tire, what else needs to be removed? Appreciate pointers on major steps

2. Is it feasible at all to remove it from the top?

3. Is it even worth doing it myself ( I do have lots of tools) and I have replaced shocks/strus, radiator, distributor etc before.

Thanks
-k

 

g1teg.org

 

After I chatted with a local, reputed mechanic. here is what I did.

Per the mechanic, usually around 160k+ miles, on the Integra, the alternator brush is the suspect. Replacing the brushes fixes the charging problem. Further, he added that the brush is best replaced while the alternator stays in the car -- no need to pull the alternator out of the car (which is a big pain).

So, I embarked on it.
1. Disconnected battery, jacked up the car, removed the oil filter,
2. Removed the back cover of the alternator
3. Unscrewed the brush assembly and carefully pulled it out (this step was a little tough because one of the screws is not easily accessible)
4. Upon inspection, one of the brushes (the assembly has 2) was worn out
5. Located a local auto parts shop (CarQuest dealer) and found the brush set - $5. Many places did not carry the parts for this alternator. One could also just replace the entire brush holder assembly (OEM=$32, On the net: $25)
6. Installed the brushes, re-installed the brush assembly, put the rear alternator cover, oil filter
7. Jump started the car, charged the battery for a couple of hours and no more problems.

Removing the brush assembly took an hour and putting it back about 40 mins.
Hope this helps anyone with similar problems.
-k