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How to Disconnect the Battery for a Faulty Alternator

Prior to replacing a faulty alternator, the battery ground cable needs to be disconnected. If this step is not taken, the battery will still have a live current running through the vehicles electrical system. The potential danger here is that a spark can be ignited when disconnecting the electrical connections from the alternator. Alternators that use fusible links can burn out the link and have to have that component replaced in order for the new alternator to work. Sparks near the battery can also cause flammable gases to ignite and explode, causing serious or even fatal injury.

Instructions

1

Park the vehicle on a flat surface if possible; apply the parking brake, ensure the engine is off and the keys are removed from the ignition. Open the hood.

2

Locate the battery in the engine compartment (if applicable). Some domestic and foreign vehicles employ a variety of locations for car batteries. Most all batteries are located in the engine compartment, but some vehicles can place the in the wheel wells, under the rear seats or even in the trunk. If necessary, to locate the battery in the specific vehicle, refer to the owners manual and follow the procedure illustrated to obtain access to the battery.

3

Locate the negative battery terminal clamp or bolt. Top-post batteries use a terminal clamp, while side-post batteries use a broad bolt to connect the terminal ends. Most vehicles use a black cable for the negative terminal and a red cable for the positive terminal. However, all batteries have a molded "NEG" or a minus sign (indicating negative) stamped on the battery housing in the vicinity of the terminal end. The positive side will have a "POS" or a plus sign (indicating positive) stamped on the battery housing.

4

Loosen the negative terminal clamps retaining nut from the bolt with a wrench or ratchet and socket by turning it counterclockwise until the terminal clamp is loose enough to wiggle back and forth on the post. For side-post batteries, turn the terminal bolt counterclockwise and remove it from the battery with the terminal end intact with the bolt.

5

Remove the drive belt and then remove the alternator according to vehicle specific repair guidelines. There is no need to disconnect the positive terminal end of the battery since the electrical current is no longer grounded. Once the alternator is replaced, reconnect the drive belt and reconnect the negative battery terminal clamp or bolt and start the engine to test the system.