Q: How to remove and replace an alternator for Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon?
A: Disconnect the cable from the negative battery terminal. Remove the drivebelt. For inline engines, raise and support the vehicle and remove the left front wheel and fenderwell liner. Unbolt the refrigerant line from the engine lifting bracket (do not disconnect the refrigerant line) and remove the engine lifting bracket. Disconnect the electrical connector at the air conditioning compressor, remove the compressor mounting bolts and lower the compressor for access to the alternator bolts. Move the electrical harness out of the way if necessary, then remove the alternator mounting bolts and the alternator. For V8 engines, disconnect the wiring from the alternator and move the wiring harnesses out of the way. If you are replacing the alternator, take the old one with you when purchasing a replacement unit. Make sure the new/rebuilt unit looks identical to the old alternator. Look at the terminals-they should be the same in number, size and location as the terminals on the old alternator. Finally, look at the identification numbers-they will be stamped into the housing. Make sure the numbers are the same on both alternators. Many new/rebuilt alternators do not have a pulley installed, so you may have to switch the pulley from the old unit to the new/rebuilt one. When buying an alternator, find out the shop's policy regarding pulleys; some shops will perform this service free of charge. Installation is the reverse of removal. Tighten the mounting bolts. Install the drivebelt. Check the charging voltage to verify proper operation of the alternator.