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MG MGF Technical - Alternator Replacement

Hi,

Wondered if you guys could help me:

Since I changed jobs, I use the train to commute and my
F has sat idle long enough for the alternator to seize up. I did get it unseized the first time with some stilsons.

Anyhow, it needs changing. Anyone done this? I assume
I can do it by removing the offside rear wheel,
but I can't quite see if that will give me the access
I need.

Thanks and regards

Chris

PS. I used to get my spares from Witham - but their number seems to be out of service - similarly with Eastern Rover at Chelmsford. I fear that they
(both) may now be gone.
Chris

You also need to remove the engine cover to get at the exhaust heatsheild, and jack the engine to remove the engine mount.
Will Munns

Okay, thanks.

I expected to have to remove the engine cover (the job I hate most) and jack it up.

So I'll have to jack the engine as well? Do you mean
so that the mount comes away?

I guess I will see better once it's up on the blocks.
Chris

The belt runs around the mount, so you have to unbolt it and squeeze the belt round. Also the bracket has some cool tensioning device (a 8mm headed bolt) instead of using a large block of wood as you may be used to.
Will Munns

I've had alternators in & out of a couple of cars, never had to move the engine or any mountings... maybe Will has extra bits?

Once you've removed the insulation panel in the offside rear wheelarch you have access to the bolts holding the adjuster mechanism, once this is removed the belt pulls free and then the alternator is only held on by the top bolt, which sadly does require the lid off to move the exhaust heat shield out of the way. Life will be easier if you can slacken the top bolt before removing the adjuster (that way the alterator will have some movement possible).

I recommend using some locking compound on the bolts when you fit the new alternator, particularly on the adjuster bolt itself - I've seen two just work themselves out!

Good luck, shouldn't present too many difficulties.
Mike Hankin

The K I have has a mount which the belt passes thru - but it did come from a 400 so I could be wrong.

I don't remember if the k is like this, but commonly there is a circular bush within the alternator or bracket which is pushed out when you do up the bolt to help lock teh alternator. A quick tap on the front face should help free things up if they are still tight after removing the bolts.
Will Munns

I have to replace the belt on my 'f' and i am sure that the mount on mine is not in the way but i cant seem to get at the adjust. loosening bolt to get the belt off, none of the weird and wonderul tools i have will get at it, any ideas anyone?????

Rick
'f' No 72
R P Earle

can you not reach it with a spanner from below?

If so then get a ratchet spanner from halfords, then you only need to get a degree of movement to and fro to undo the nut.

Will Munns

Will

Do you mean below the car??? as I have found that the subframe is in the way!!!!! the wratcheted spanners from Hal are too big to get over the bolt!!!!. The only wat to get at it i have found is through the side but with a curved ring spanner but cant get enough force on it from that position to shift it!!!

Rick
R P Earle

This thread was discussed between 04/10/2005 and 05/10/2005

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