How to Replace Alternator: 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500

Watch this video to learn how to replace the alternator on a 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500.

Replacing Alternator on a 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500: What You Need

Ready to perform this DIY replacement job? Remember that all the parts in this guide can be found on CarParts.com. Check out all the products that fit your vehicle right here.

Parts Checklist

• Alternator

Tightening Torques

There are no tightening torques for this operation.

Tools Checklist

Here’s the toolbox we recommend to repair your Dodge RAM 1500: HM85 85 Piece Ratchet and Socket Set

List of tools:

• Ratchet
• Extender
• 10mm socket
• Breaker bar
• 1/2″ Drive extension socket
• Hydraulic jack
• Jack stands
• Wheel lug wrench
• Small ratchet
• 8mm socket
• Flat head screwdriver
• 12mm socket
• 13mm wrench
• 13mm socket
• Gimbal
• Torx E7 socket

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Vehicle

• Turn off the engine, set the parking brake, pull the hood release handle, and open the hood.
• Disconnect the battery for safety reasons.

Step 2: Remove Serpentine Belt

• Remove the serpentine belt from the alternator pulley to facilitate alternator removal.

Step 3: Lift and Secure the Vehicle

• Loosen lug nuts on the passenger side wheel.
• Lift the front of your vehicle and secure it on jack stands.

Step 4: Remove Wheel and Mudguard

• Take off the passenger-side wheel for full access.
• Remove the mudguard after unclipping the ABS sensor cable retaining clip.

Step 5: Access Alternator

• Using a ratchet and an 8mm socket, unscrew three mudguard retaining screws.
• Disconnect the electrical connector from the alternator using a flat-head screwdriver.

Step 6: Disconnect Alternator Wires

• Remove the rubber protection.
• Unscrew the nut holding the positive terminal with a ratchet and a 12mm socket.
• Unscrew the alternator retaining nut with a 13mm wrench.

Step 7: Remove Alternator Bolts

• Using a ratchet and a 13mm socket, unscrew the upper retaining bolt.
• Using a ratchet, a gimbal, an extender, and a 13mm socket, unscrew the lower retaining bolt.

Step 8: Release Threaded Rod

• Unscrew the threaded rod on the engine block with a small ratchet and a Torx E7 socket while holding the alternator.
• Remove the threaded rod.

Step 9: Extract the Alternator

• Take out the alternator from underneath the vehicle.

Step 10: Install the New Alternator

• Place the new alternator in position from underneath the vehicle.
• Screw the threaded rod back on by hand, then tighten using the ratchet and Torx E7 socket.
• Screw the upper retaining bolt and lower retaining bolt back in place.

Step 11: Reconnect Wires

• Replace the positive terminal and screw the nut back on.
• Replace the plastic cover.
• Plug in the electrical connector and lock it.

Step 12: Replace Mudguard and Wheel

• Put the mudguard back in place and tighten all the screws.
• Clip the ABS sensor connector inside the mudguard.
• Put the wheel back on the vehicle.

Step 13: Lower the Vehicle and Secure

• Lower the car and block the wheel properly.

Step 14: Reinstall Serpentine Belt

• Put the serpentine belt back in place.

Step 15: Reconnect the Battery

• Reconnect the battery.

Compatible Vehicles

The operation and tools displayed in the video should be available on the following vehicles:

• 2009 Dodge Ram 1500
• 2010 Dodge Ram 1500
• 2011 Ram 1500
• 2012 Ram 1500
• 2013 Ram 1500
• 2014 Ram 1500
• 2015 Ram 1500
• 2016 Ram 1500
• 2017 Ram 1500
• 2018 Ram 1500

Important Reminders

In order to remove the alternator, you need to remove the serpentine belt from the alternator pulley.

For safety reasons, we advise you to disconnect the battery.

Disclaimer:

This video is for entertainment purposes only. CarParts.com, Inc. disclaims all damages including, but not limited to, actual, consequential, and/or punitive, for any liability, claim, or any other injury or cause related to or arising from any information or lack thereof posted in this video. No information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. All mechanical car projects entail some risk. It is the sole responsibility of the viewer to assume this risk. If you are in doubt, please consult a licensed mechanic in your area.