Is a "service loop" for alternator wiring a good idea?

[Cloggie]

Hi guys,

Making progress on getting my 3.4 into the car - far slower than I expected.

Just doing the engine wiring harness now, particularly the alternator wiring.

I recall replacing the alternator on my previous 911 was a huge PITA as the wiring harness was so short I could barely get a wrench in there to loosen the connections while holding a heavy alternator in one hand.

So, I am thinking of putting a generous loop of extra wire that would tuck up against the shroud (might 3D print a hook for it) and then if I ever have to get it out, it should be much easier.

Here is the service loop I have in mind.




I can't think of any downsides...can anyone else?

Thanks all,

D.

[proffighter]

No downside in my eyes and worth a try, but how stiff are your wires that you can make such an angle like the blue one?

On the other hand: How much you think you have to remove/replace alternator? Once all year or ten years?

[Cloggie]

Originally Posted by proffighter

No downside in my eyes and worth a try, but how stiff are your wires that you can make such an angle like the blue one?

On the other hand: How much you think you have to remove/replace alternator? Once all year or ten years?

Fair points all and I figure worst case - in the event I have to replace the alternator and it doesn't work...I drop the engine and rebuild the wiring harness.

I upgraded the wire considerably, its either TXL insulation which is pretty bendy with multistrand wire and the large ones have high temperature silicone insulation and are also multi-strand (like 300 strands).

Thanks again!

D.

[917_Langheck]

Considering the tuned guitar strings Porsche wired into the 911, any extra wire added will pay dividends in lower frustration levels during future service or adjustment work.

[rwest]

I think I would just add enough extra to get my wrench on it when I pulled it clear of the shroud.

[Cloggie]

Originally Posted by rwest

I think I would just add enough extra to get my wrench on it when I pulled it clear of the shroud.

That is what I finally went with, plus a S curve outside the shroud, between the two I ought to be able to pull the fan assembly off, rest it on the engine crossbar and take the nuts holding the wires off.

Thanks everyone for your help...much appreciated.

D.

[freddy67]

Anything that spares you from holding a 20-pound alternator in mid-air like you're defusing a bomb is a win in my book.

[Cloggie]

Originally Posted by freddy67

Anything that spares you from holding a 20-pound alternator in mid-air like you're defusing a bomb is a win in my book.

I have the engine mostly together and the extra wiring is zero issue. Since I have ITB's the service loop allows the engine harness to lay nicely in the curves of the shroud and it'd be a 5 minute job to loosen the clamps, get my extra wire length and lay the alternator on the crossbar.

I think it is going to work out well.

Now with my luck, this alternator will be rock solid and never die....and I will never need the loop.

Ah well, next owner after I croak...

D.

[PeteKz]

"Now with my luck, this alternator will be rock solid and never die....and I will never need the loop."

I'll take your luck!