1999 BUICK CENTURY
235 MILES
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CLYDEANDERSON
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Alternator removal question: I am replacing the alternator in a 1999 Buick Century. I have unplugged the electrical connections, and removed the bolts except one. The bolt I cannot remove is threaded through the front part of the alternator. It is attached to a bracket that is bolted to the engine block (I have removed the bracket nut and bolt). The bolt permits the alternator to move up and down. When I unscrewed the bolt it cannot be pulled out because the the head of the bolt (at it's extended length) butts against the plastic radiator overfill tank. There is no room to remove the bolt. Thus, I cannot remove the alternator until that bolt is removed. Do you have a suggestions to solve this problem?
Feb 4, 2013 at 8:58 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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It sounds like you need to remove the radiator overflow bottle.
Feb 4, 2013 at 9:00 PM
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CLYDEANDERSON
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Thank you so much for the quick response.
I was afraid of that. Yes, that will work. Unfortunately, I do not have the proper tools to remove the radiator overflow bottle. What's up with this design?
Feb 4, 2013 at 9:06 PM
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CLYDEANDERSON
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Do know what tools and parts I would need to remove and re-install the radiator overflow bottle?
Feb 4, 2013 at 9:08 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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There shouldn't be a special tool. It should be bolted to the inner fender and it should slide out.
Feb 4, 2013 at 9:21 PM
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CLYDEANDERSON
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OK. I'll check it out.

Thank you so much.
Feb 4, 2013 at 10:03 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Let me know how you make out.
Feb 5, 2013 at 1:57 AM
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CLYDEANDERSON
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It all worked out. i needed to look closer at the inner fender bolts.
Thank you so much for your help.
Feb 5, 2013 at 12:52 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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I'm glad I was able to help. Let us know if you have questions in the future.
Feb 6, 2013 at 1:49 AM