Trying to change alternator 2005 XC 90 V8

wgc2005 · Post by **wgc2005** » 14 Jun 2011, 09:54

I am trying to change the alternator on my 2005 Volvo XC90 V8 and am having a hard time figuring out how to get it done. I have looked for a DIY manual such as Haynes and could not find any. Can someone help me figure out how to change the alternator? Also, to make matters worse, I put a wrench on the hex head of the idler pulley assembly and broke that off. I have a feeling this is going to make it very difficult to get the belt off. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks in advance!

Post by **jimmy57** » 14 Jun 2011, 10:10

Pull the RH axle out.
That will require you disconnect lower ball joint, take out the bolt in center of hub that holds axle into hub, remove the two bolts on the axle support bearing bracket, tap the axle back to assure it is loose from splines in hub.
Pry down the lower control arm to free it from ball joint stud and then you can pull bub/spindle outward so the axle is free from hub and then slide out the axle.
You may find it easier to remove the bracket from block that holds that bearing for axle shaft.
The tensioner is damped and when you release belt tension it is done by applying steady pressure and waiting, and waiting, and waiting. The new tensioner will have a neat tool on it that captures the spring and will make any future belt work much easier. Inspect your fixed belt idlers to be sure they are OK. They do wear out too.

wgc2005 · Post by **wgc2005** » 14 Jun 2011, 10:37

Do you know if there are any good manuals available to help with this?

Post by **jimmy57** » 14 Jun 2011, 11:41

none I know of. Vadis or Vida, the Volvo repair info system.

wgc2005 · Post by **wgc2005** » 15 Jun 2011, 09:46

Does anyone know where I can get a belt tensioner assembly for less than $300? Has anyone dealt with any good salvage yards for parts?

Post by **gshadow325** » 15 Jun 2011, 19:28

there are 4 banner ads up top, the second one from the right on the bottom row.

erie vovo is are great recyclers! decent prices and lifetime warranty

wgc2005 · Post by **wgc2005** » 17 Jun 2011, 14:49

jimmy57 how much time does this replacement usually take?

Post by **jimmy57** » 17 Jun 2011, 14:57

I did one right after the V8 came out. I recall it being 4-5 hours with a lift and ready access to shop tools.

wgc2005 · Post by **wgc2005** » 17 Jun 2011, 21:58

I just completed the alternator install. Thank you jimmy57 for the advice. It took me about 5 hours to complete. I now have one more question....after taking it for a test drive I noticed that the high beam lights would not stay on. I can hold the lever back and they will stay on, but when I release the lever, the high beam lights go out. All other lights are working properly and will stay on. Did I not let the battery charge long enough, or is there something else now wrong? Thanks again for everyone's advice.

Post by **jimmy57** » 17 Jun 2011, 22:41

turn on you headlights with the knob, the headlight switch in off position turns on the full function of headlamp system for daytime running lamps EXCEPT the high beam function. Pulling back on the stalk is "pass to flash" feature and works regardless of lamps being fully on.

What did you do about the broken belt tensioner?