Alternator decoupler pulley replacement

GNARLYMARLEE

MEMBER
2013 DODGE JOURNEY
2.4L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
180,000 MILES

I have an ignition interlock device and I need to replace my alternator decoupler pulley. If my battery is disconnected for more than 5 minutes I will get a violation on my device. Is it safe to reconnect the battery while I have the alternator removed so I can replace the pulley and then disconnect it again to put the alternator back on?

4 Replies

DANNY L

MECHANIC
5,648 POSTS

Hello, I'm Danny.

Usually the Ignition interlock (head) unit is able to disconnect from the car to be calibrated. Can you send a picture of the unit? Use your cell phone and upload here. I've had had one before. Hope this helps and thanks for using 2CarPros.

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Thursday, May 21st, 2020 AT 8:30 PM

GNARLYMARLEE

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Yes, it can be removed, but I'm still not allowed to have the battery disconnected for more than 5 minutes. All I really want to know if can I reconnect the battery while the alternator is removed from the car or will that cause damage to my electrical system?

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Thursday, May 21st, 2020 AT 8:35 PM

GNARLYMARLEE

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Apparently now they have a component inside the dash or something that can't lose power for a certain length of time without being considered "tampered with" otherwise I would've just removed the head and left it disconnected. I know I can pull the alternator or replace it within 5 minutes, I'm just not sure I can pull it, change the pulley, and replace it with that time.

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Thursday, May 21st, 2020 AT 8:39 PM

DANNY L

MECHANIC
5,648 POSTS

Hello again.

Yes, I find that hard to believe but then just keep the car battery connected and just remove the connections (power) wires from the alternator and leave the car battery connected. Now remember while doing this the main positive wire that goes to the alternator is live (positive) the whole time since the battery is staying connected. I've attached a picture of the positive cable that will be under power on the alternator and have circled it in red. Hope this helps and thanks again for using 2CarPros.

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