Hi

I'm in the middle of replacing my alternator, I've already snapped the ***** coolant vent line.

I've gone to install the new alternator and can't get the bolts to line up properly. If I'm get the lower bolt started it is almost impossible to even start the upper left. I can just about get it started but it's extremely tight and I'm damaging threads.

I have tried to reinstall the old alternator and have the same problem.

I can't understand how anything could have moved, are they meant to be such a tight fit?

Thanks

Billy

The only thing that has moved is the alternator and you have not aligned it properly because you are damaging threads. As you have already damaged parts, I am guessing that you are probably quite new to mechanics. By all mean have a go, we encourage it but if you get to the point where it is just not working, walk away and try again tomorrow. If it still doesn't want to know, call in a mobile mechanic.

Alternators are usually a pretty tight fit and if misaligned, you should know it because they just don't fit. A tip

: Try pushing a small diameter screwdriver through the mounting hole in the carrier and pivot the alternator on that so it doesn't drop off but can be properly aligned. There is a sweet spot and this is a good way to find it. Once it is right, it will go straight in.

Well in the end I took the headlight out to get better access and view of the lower bolt.

I got all three bolts started with low resistance but on tightening I believe the lower one isn't great.

It's too late now, the belts back on and she runs, healthy voltage. So time will tell.

I'm not a proper mechanic, but I've given up on a series of 'proper'mechanics who've done plenty of bodges bigger than this.

Shifting stuff for better access is a sensible thing to do. All three bolts going in easily means that you found the sweet spot.

There are mechanics and mechanics!

Well done. It is good practice to check the belt tension after a couple of hundred miles of running, together with a check that all your bolts are still tight for peace of mind.