Alternator Replacement (type)

[sanch109]

Should I replace my alternator with an OEM replacement or is buying one from an auto parts store like Autozone or O'Reilly's fine? What alternator do I buy? I don't know if there are different types of alternators that would fit and work. I want to buy a quality alternator for the replacement. If OEM is the option, where do I get one? (2015 Ram 1500 V8 4x4)

Also, I am going to do this replacement myself. Anything I should know about replacing the alternator before I attempt to replace it? I am no mechanic but it does not see too difficult.

remove negative terminal from battery
remove air intake tube
unplug alternator and battery cable on alternator
remove belt from alternator
remove bolts from alternator
remove and replace with new alternator
add bolts to new alternator
put belt back on alternator
plug alternator and battery cable back in
install intake tube
install negative terminal to battery

Thank you for the help. I want to make sure I replace the alternator correctly and with a quality part that will last.

 

[tron67j]

Me, I go OEM for anything like that. Check with @AllMoparParts.com , Benny may be able to give you a quote on a replacement unit.

 

[sanch109]

Thank you. I did end up ordering a remanufactured Mopar alternator.

 

[KansasArt]

Might want to consider belt/tensioner replacement since you’re there and have to remove the belt anyways.

 

[sanch109]

why replace the belt tensioner?

 

[hemihustlin]

like everything tensioners wear out and no longer provide the correct tension for the belt. at 10 years old i would bet that there is at least 1 idler pully that the bearing will be shot.
the safe approach here would be to order the belt the tensioner and the idler pullies (not sure how many there are on these newer hemis, i remember my 06 had 2 idlers)
if you are able to diagnose them and order as you go you can do that too but you are at the mercy of the parts store delivery times.

 

[Biggfoot44]

Worst case scenario , is an idler / tensioner having catastrophic failure driving down the highway .

 

[sanch109]

i have a little over 100k miles. does that make a difference for the tensioner and idler pullies?

 

[seems fishy]

Yes you should replace tensioner

 

[RamDiver]

i have a little over 100k miles. does that make a difference for the tensioner and idler pullies?

If this were my truck, I would listen to the bearings on everything being driven by the fan belt.
A big $9 at Harbour Freight will allow you to find problematic bearings very easily.

It works great for idler pulleys, too.

https://www.harborfreight.com/automotive/diagnostic-testing-scanning/multimeters-probes-testers/mechanics-stethoscopes.html

And inspect the drive belt very carefully for cuts, damage or wear.

What is the cost of the tensioner? Would you rather gamble with being stranded when it expires, or is it worth the replacement cost to reduce the likelihood of being stranded?

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