Alternator gone to hell

[Skitzofrantic]

So I'm coming home from work and my battery light comes on. Almost get home and the damn car stalls and dies on me. I just wanted to know if it was easy to replace an alternator and if anyone knew the cost of one for a 99 cougar.

thanks

[99CouGSweetRide]

Well when my alternator went I got it fixed under warranty, but even then the dealership said it was a pain in the @$$ to replace (the alternator is under the engine instead of on top, stupid ford). But do NOT go to the dealership to get yours fixed (assuming your car is no longer under warranty) cuz they will charge you and arm and a leg. I've heard costs from $450 up to $700 after parts/labor. Just go somewhere else and get a rebuilt alternator for a hundred or two bucks. I think you can access the alt. from the wheel well, but not sure.

Mike

[caenus]

They replaced my alternator and wiring under warranty after I took it complaining about flickering lights. Only took them about 2 hours once they started on the car. They probably jacked up the car, removed the passenger front wheel and got the alternator.

[01blkcat]

Here's the removal from the Ford CD -- just in case anyone was wondering!

__________________________________________________ ________________


Generator — Vehicles with 2.5L Engine (314140)


Special Service Tool(s)


Separator, Ball Joint
211-020 (TOOL-3290-D)


Removal

1. Disconnect the battery ground cable.

2. Remove the accessory drive belt. For additional information, refer to «Section 303-05».

µ 3. Remove the tie-rod end nut.

µ 4. CAUTION:
Protect the ball joint seal to prevent damage.

Using the special tool, separate the tie-rod end from the wheel knuckle.

µ 5. Remove the wheelarch liner.

µ 6. Disconnect the generator electrical connectors (generator shown removed for clarity).

µ 7. Remove the generator upper retaining nut and stud.

µ 8. Remove the generator lower retaining bolts.

µ 9. Remove the generator through the wheel opening.


Installation

1. To install, reverse the removal procedure.

[Adidas02]

Welcome to the club. I believe I'm the president of this one seeing as how I am on alternator #6. All of mine have been under waranty so I couldn't tell ya a cost.