Alternator Ground Strap - 911SC

[sigchuck]

Hi guys, getting ready to replace the alternator on my 83 911. I ordered what I hope to be all the parts the I’ll need, including a new ground strap. I’ve read quite a few threads on the alternator job and ground strap, and with respect to the case bolt the strap is attached to, does the actual nut need holding the bolt in need to be removed, or is there an extra nut threaded on just for the ground strap?

If the former, do I run the risk of opening up a leak, etc., by loosening a case bolt to replace the strap? Difficulty level in getting a torque wrench on the nut with the shroud in place?

Thanks for the help, as always!

[wareaglescott]

replaced mine recently but the motor was out of the car so had more room to work. You have to take the actual nut off. With all the others nuts still tightened up I didn't feel loosening one would cause any issues.

[tirwin]

Originally Posted by sigchuck

Hi guys, getting ready to replace the alternator on my 83 911. I ordered what I hope to be all the parts the I’ll need, including a new ground strap. I’ve read quite a few threads on the alternator job and ground strap, and with respect to the case bolt the strap is attached to, does the actual nut need holding the bolt in need to be removed, or is there an extra nut threaded on just for the ground strap?

If the former, do I run the risk of opening up a leak, etc., by loosening a case bolt to replace the strap? Difficulty level in getting a torque wrench on the nut with the shroud in place?

Thanks for the help, as always!

This may be just a matter of semantics, but usually when people talk about the ground "strap" they mean the fat one that connects the engine/trans to the chassis. There is a part number for this one.

It sounds like you're also talking about the ground from the alternator to the case. I wasn't aware there was a part number for this one. When I replaced my alternator I just stripped the existing wire ends to bare copper and re-crimped new connectors. You should be fine removing the bolt.

Just wanted to make sure we're talking the same thing.

[sigchuck]

Thanks, Scott!

Tim, yes, it's the alternator ground strap and not the transmission strap. I'm not sure I actually have a bad alternator, so in an effort to check/replace the three primary grounding points, I just searched "ground strap" in the Pelican catalog to try to anticipate all the parts I might need. The brown Porsche strap/cable for the alternator is $7 and change.

In a slight hijack of my own thread, the issue is that the battery isn't charging at idle. I have never had a problem starting the car or in traffic, and never had any symptoms manifest in the charging light. The car was started and left to idle though and died after probably 20 or so minutes. After charging, the battery again worked fine but slowly depleted at idle. All my general automotive knowledge would seem to point to voltage regulator (internal in my 83, I believe), but any other thoughts would be appreciated. I got what I think is a decent deal on a new Valeo with no core charge, so I'll probably rebuild whatever is in there and keep it as a spare.

[lsf911]

I think you're assumption is a correct one. Most likely the voltage regulator failing.

As far as the alternator ground wire, measure it with an ohm meter from one end to the other. I bet it still reads zero ohms. I have heard a lot of people say they "rust". Unless it is really corroded, it's just a braided set of wires...a short one too. Clean the ends and re-attach it. Taking out one bolt/nut shouldn't be an issue.

Good luck.