I am woman hear me roar! Just go with it. Today I helped to change the alternator on my car. My chest all stuck out. Before yesterday I didn't even know what an alternator looked like or what tools I would need to use to replace it. So I took to the information highway (the internet) and I looked up my car, then how to replace the alternator. I then printed out written instructions but I’m a got to see it kind of girl. When I went to Auto Zone website they had an actual video that not only showed you what an alternator looked like but how to put it in the car. Talk about pleasantly surprised! So when my Dad said, “You want me to take it off for you,” I jumped at the chance to get my hands dirty plus it’s cheap labor. Just keeping it real.
After trying to figure out which tools we needed, we got busy; taking off the belt first (it was extremely loose), then the connectors, the bolts, and finally the alternator. I took the alternator to Advanced Auto and purchased a new one for $145.19, then brought it back home. I then discovered that my belt tensioner was burnt out and I had to go back to the automotive store to pick one up. I of course had no idea what the burnt up part was or what it did until I got to the auto store. I asked the woman at the counter, “do you know what this is.” No shame in my game, honey. I was just thankful that one of us had a clue and it wasn't me. Thanks chic. Alright, so now I got the right parts and I’m on my way home.
Unfortunately, it was too late to finish the job and I decided to resume my task the next day. I didn't have my Dad around to help so I decided to try to put the alternator back on my self. Ha. Ha. Ha. Yeah, I’m laughing. Patients is not my virtue! After about an hour of trying to stretch that lousy belt and put the alternator in place, I had the common sense to know that I could not do the job alone. Executive decision. As a woman we reserve the right to change our mind; any time or all the time. It’s some where in the woman's handbook. Which one you ask? If I told you I’d have to kill you.
I solicited the help of my uncle that lives next door. I really didn't want to ask but what can I say. Idea’s of grandeur. I get his help and damned if he don’t know no more than I do. It surprisingly made me feel better, just watching him try to figure it out. Although I did have an hour in already. I was standing there all pitiful with my greased up hands and dirt all in my hair, looking a hot mess. Sad sight but I was happy because I was replacing the alternator on my car.
After a little time we put our heads together and figured out what needed to be done then we got busy baby. My uncle had a light bulb moment, and in the end I screwed the alternator in place using the old bolts, we figured out how to get the belt under the belt tensioner, I hooked the connectors back up, then the alternator was officially replaced. I had to charge my battery back up before I could turn the engine on but boy did that baby purr when I finally turned that switch. Sweet success!
I tried something that was completely out of my comfort zone and in the process I learned something I didn't know; the best part is I saved a few hundred bucks on labor. Now I’m not saying that I’m going to always fix on my own car but if I can do the job myself from now on I’m certainly going to try.
I’m Lady PJ and information is power, so be informed.
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