how to get bolt out from civic alternator?

Discussion in 'Civic' started by Rocky, Jul 9, 2005.

  1. Rocky

    Rocky Guest

    I have been using pb blaster, but the bolt will not slide out from the lower
    mounting of the alternator - 94 civic lx. I can't even move the alt by
    hand, so I have been using a prybar and large sledge hammer - then it moves,
    but won't free up enough to release the through bolt.

    I guess Honda didn't expect the car to be driven in snow and salty roads
    when they decided to put the alternator low and next to the front tire when
    it will get splashed. It also would have made more sense to use a
    serpentine belt instead of 3 separate belts for the accessories.
     
    Rocky, Jul 9, 2005
    #1
  2. Rocky

    Professor Guest

    Use a penetrating oil and apply heat carefully to the area. This should
    break the bond. Be patient... and repeat the process until you get it.

    Professor
    Check out FlashAlert at www.telstar-electronics.com
     
    Professor, Jul 9, 2005
    #2
  3. Rocky

    Rocky Guest

    Would a propane torch get hot enough?
     
    Rocky, Jul 9, 2005
    #3
  4. Rocky

    Rocky Guest

    update:
    I bought a 4' long hose/propane torch fitting kit and have heated up the
    bolt til it starts to glow and the alternator starts smoking from the
    windings buring - that lower bolt still will not loosten.

    I am howerver able to freely flop the alternator back ond forth in it's
    pivot - the rust have disolved in that arena.

    I tried to grind off the aluminum part of the alternator to shear it off the
    bolt, but there is not enough room to work plus my grinder uses up the air
    before the compressor can put it back in the tank.

    I did remove one bolt from the bracket where it mounts to the block, but the
    through bolt blocks the removal of the second bolt - a disappointing design
    by honda engineering.

    any other ideas?
     
    Rocky, Jul 10, 2005
    #4
  5. Rocky

    SoCalMike Guest

    electric angle grinder, or sawzall? harbor freight sells cheap versions
     
    SoCalMike, Jul 10, 2005
    #5
  6. Rocky

    Rocky Guest

    sawzall - excellent idea - I'll have to get a metal cutting blade.

    I test drove the car tonight - battery has a full charge - car ran good, but
    I am concerned about white steam from exhaust - I'll have garage do a
    compression test this week.
     
    Rocky, Jul 11, 2005
    #6
  7. Rocky

    Rocky Guest

    I ran out of time to work on this and I asked the gas station torch off the
    bracket. I had bought a replacement brack at the local Honda dealer -
    $37.00 and they got it withing 24hrs. I had them order a new bolt and nut
    too.
     
    Rocky, Jul 17, 2005
    #7
  8. Rocky

    Abeness Guest

    Sometimes you just gotta cut to the chase. Banging my head against a
    stubborn bolt is not on my short list of things to spend my time on!
     
    Abeness, Jul 17, 2005
    #8
Ask a Question

Want to reply to this thread or ask your own question?

You'll need to choose a username for the site, which only take a couple of moments (here). After that, you can post your question and our members will help you out.