The alternator on my car went kaput. Nowhere in my area would do the job for less than $800-something, and most places were quoting $900-$1k.
So I looked up how-tos on YouTube and it looked like something I, a woman with zero experience or knowledge of working on cars, could do.
I got a remanufactured alternator for $180 and got to work following the tutorials I’d found.
It certainly did not go smoothly, but I managed it. It took me 6 hours to get the alternator out, mainly because every goddamn bolt holding the parts in place were basically cemented in. I had to use my foot to stomp one loose because I didn’t have the strength in my arms.
Today I spent another 4 hours trying to put in the new one and all the parts back in place. And I did it!!
Except for the power steering belt. That fucker would not go into place, and trying to force the belt tensioner back took every ounce of strength I could muster.
All that work. All that time and effort and THE VERY LAST STEP to get my car up and running defeated me today. I had to get a task rabbit guy. He’s coming tomorrow to get my belt back on.
On one hand I feel proud that I made it this far. On the other I feel like a complete failure because it turns out I couldn’t complete the task myself.
Anyway, how was your weekend?
Not a complete failure. Belts are tricky. You learned how to replace an alternator, and you’ve done it. Your first alternator will forever be behind you. And if you can do that, there’s a lot more car maintenance that you are more than capable of if you’d like to build on the experience. We’re proud of you, fellow internet stranger!
That’s so awesome. I’m down to save money where I can, so I’d be up for more projects if it comes down to it. and yeah, I was a bit shocked that I was able to figure out how to get some of it done, so that does feel good. Thanks for your comment. :)