How to Change a 1991 Nissan Hardbody Alternator

Alternator

When the alternator on your Nissan Hardbody goes out, the electrical accessories on your truck start to run on the battery power, which will eventually drain the battery. This can make diagnosing the problem difficult, because you may think that the battery is bad as well. However, if you can drive the vehicle to a local auto parts store, most do free alternator and battery testing. In this case, the project vehicle is a 1991 Nissan Hardbody with the 3.0l V6 engine.
Difficulty: Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need
Open-end wrench set
3/8-inch ratchet and socket set
Replacement alternator
1

Open the hood and disconnect the negative terminal from the battery using and open-end wrench. Then repeat the process with the positive terminal. Unbolt the electrical connections on the alternator using the wrench or the ratchet, depending on how easily accessible they are.
2

Unbolt the pivot bolt on the alternator using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket. Then push the alternator in toward the engine and remove the belt from the alternator pulley.
3

Unbolt the remaining bolt from the alternator and pull it out of the bracket. Slide the replacement alternator into the bracket and bolt it in place.
4

Loosely thread the pivot bolt into the alternator so that it holds it loosely in place. Then push in the alternator toward the engine, slide the belt over the pulley, then push the alternator away from the engine and tighten down the pivot bolt using the ratchet.
5

Reinstall the electrical connections on the alternator using an open-end wrench or ratchet, then reconnect the positive and negative terminals on the battery using an open-end wrench.