Auto-Maintenance-Repair > DIY Auto Repair > >How to Replace the Alternator in a Ford F-Series

How to Replace the Alternator in a Ford F-Series


The alternator in a Ford F-Series operates various electrical devices in the vehicle while the engine is running. A voltage regulator keeps the voltage level constant and is usually part of the alternator assembly. You may need to replace the alternator if your headlights become dimmer while driving or your battery repeatedly runs down.



Difficulty:
Moderately ChallengingInstructionsThings You'll Need:
  • New alternator
  • Socket wrench set
  • Torque wrench
  1. Step 1

    Determine which alternator your Ford F-Series needs. Be sure the new alternator is compatible with the engine of your F-Series. Each generation of the Ford F-Series trucks features a range of engine sizes. Those made before 1966 generally have six-cylinder engines in the 200 to 300 cubic inch (ci) range.

  2. Step 2

    Look at the development of the V8 engine in F-Series trucks. A 352 ci V8 engine was introduced in 1966, and V8 engines quickly increased in size, reaching their peak in the 460 ci engine introduced in 1973 that was available until 1979.

  3. Step 3

    Examine the effect of the fuel crisis on the engine size in F-Series trucks. Engines from 1980 on were much smaller but gradually increased in power. The latest generation debuted in 2004 and is available in 4.2 L, 4.6 L and 5.4 L sizes.

  4. Step 4

    Disconnect the negative battery cable and drive belt with a socket wrench. If you have a 4.6 L or 5.4 L engine, you also need to remove the alternator bracket. Remove the electrical connectors for the alternator, stator and voltage regulator.

  5. Step 5

    Loosen the nut for the battery cable with a socket wrench so you can remove the cable. Take the mounting bolts off the alternator with a socket wrench and remove the alternator.

  6. Step 6

    Install the new alternator assembly. Use a torque wrench to tighten the mounting bolts to 35 foot-lb. if you have a 4.2 L engine and 18 foot-lb. for a 4.6 L or 5.4 L engine. Install the alternator battery cable and nut with a socket wrench.

  7. Step 7

    Plug in the connectors for the alternator, stator and voltage regulator. Torque the bolts for the alternator bracket to 89 inch-lb. if you have a 4.6 L or 5.4 L engine. Install the drive belt and negative battery cable with a socket wrench.


Car Repair | Car Diagnosis | Brake Repair | Transmission Repair | Trouble codes | car repair problems | auto insurance question | Car Logos Pictures |




Pre:How to Replace the Alternator in a Ford Mustang   Next:How to Replace the Alternator in a Honda Accord

  • How to Change an Evaporator Core
  • How to Remove a Toyota Crankshaft Pulley
  • How to Get a New Toyota Car Ignition Key
  • How to Seal a Blown Head Gasket
  • 1999 Dodge RAM 2500 Thermostat Installation
  • How to Change the Transmission Oil on a Honda Scooter
  • How to Replace the Starter on a Pontiac Sunbird
  • How to Remove Steering Column Housing
  • How to Replace a Coil Spring in a Nissan Pathfinder
  • How to Replace a Horn in a Ford Taurus
  • How to Replace a Hub Bearing
  • How to Change an 2004 Ford F150 Exhaust Manifold
  • How to Replace the Shocks and Struts in a GMC Sierra
  • How to Change a Ford Taurus Water Pump
  • How to Tighten the Serpetine Belt on a Mercedes Benz 190E
  • How to Replace a Radiator in a Geo Metro
  • How to Replace an Intake Gasket on a Chevy Malibu
  • How to Fix a Leaky Oil Filter
  • How to Remove a Broken Key from a Car Lock
  • How to Change a Radiator in a 2006 Taurus
  • How to Make a Wood Car Racing Ramp
  • How to Replace a Dodge Caliber Headlight
  • How to Replace a Windshield Wiper Blade Motor in a Chevy Tru
  • How to Replace the Ignition Coil in a Honda Prelude
  • Loading


  • troubleshooting
  • Car Brake Problems
  • Car Problems
  • Air Condition Repair
  • Truck Repair
  • Car Wiring and Electrical
  • Car Transmission Repair
  • Car Noises Problems
  • Auto Stereo Repair
  • DIY Auto Repair
  • Auto braking system repair
  • Auto Battery Repair
  • safe
  • parts
  • auto-repair
  • auto-maintenance
  • Auto Airbag System Repair
  • Car Diagnosis Troubleshooting