Alternator replacement for a Jeep Wrangler JK 3.6L - Explained

This video demonstrates how to replace an alternator and a serpentine belt on a 2016 Jeep Wrangler 3.6L. The 2012-2018 Jeep Wranglers are similar. Some electrical connections may be different. This video attempt to walk through the basics of removal of the alternator, the serpentine belt and replacement. Serpentine Belts are suggested to be replaced between 60K - 90K miles but may be earlier or later based on the condition. Always have a qualified service provider inspect your vehicle for service needs. Alternators may be mis-diagnosed as an issue. The basic electrical system consists of the battery, alternator, connections, cables and fusebox. There are may causes to electrical system failures. This video does not assume to provide a specific diagnosis to your issue but instead helps share possible causes as well as how to replace the alternator and serpentine belt. There is a quick bonus feature at the end of the video on basic testing of the battery and alternator. This video may go into further details on some subjects and it is the viewers choice to fast forward to other parts of the video.
Thank you for watching and allowing us to share our information on how we perform these tasks. Safety is always a priority. Please pay attention to disconnecting the negative cable on the battery in the video. Always ensure your vehicle is not hot to avoid any potential for burns.
#jeep #jeeplife #diy
Please use a professional service provider for your installation needs. This video is for informational purposes only.
John's Jeep Garage attempts to make this content as correct as possible. We do not make any promises or claims about the accuracy of the task described in the videos. Any DIY person or persons attempting to repeat these tasks must do so at their own risk. John's Jeep Garage is not liable for any injury, loss or damage resulting in information contained in this video. Seek professional help if you are not experienced in these tasks.
Thank you.
@John’s Jeep Garage

[@hgerz88]

Will the process be fairly close to the same on a 2020 Gladiator? Thanks for the video!

[@JohnsJeepGarage]

I have not replaced any on the newer Gladiators, but in general - yes. I probably need to do a walk through for that project but the concept is the same. Thank you for watching.

[@hull5768]

Nice idea on using the black cap on the battery terminal. Will have to remember that. I'd like to know why Jeep mounts the alternator backwards like that? Thanks

[@JohnsJeepGarage]

Thanks for watching. I am glad that tip was helpful. On the alternator, it is about alignment with other engine accessory pulleys for the serpentine belt. So it’s more about where it fits in the engine bay with that particular engine. As an example, look at the TJ , more access on the 4.0 L and able to have the alternator set back with belt in front. The same on a Jeep Wrangler JK 3.8 L, room in the engine bay to have the alternator back and pulley facing forward to align the accessories and belt. The new design 3.6 L versions on the same Jeep JK body, reverses the position of the alternator for easier alignment. The same with different model cars. I realize the design engineering teams create other problems too for jobs that were simple like changing spark plugs. I like the older styles easier access.

[@hull5768]

@@JohnsJeepGarage thanks!

[@atomiclife9900]

Whats Up Jhon ! Hope your doing great brother, Blessings 💯

[@JohnsJeepGarage]

You too! Thank you for watching our channel. 😎✌🏼

[@erichkamann9115]

Hi. The torque for the bracket upper 13mm bolts is 18 footpounds / 30 Nm , the 16mm center one is 41 footpounds/55NM .I'm not sure if I understood it correctly but in the video, it seems like you're saying that the 13mm top ones are 43 footpounds. Only de the big ones , are 41-43 footpounds. That, according to Chrysler Workshop manual. Thanks for the video, it was very helpful for me.

[@JohnsJeepGarage]

Thanks for the info! Thanks for watching.

[@shooooota]

Fantastic video! Where can I buy the belt and alternator in the US?

[@JohnsJeepGarage]

Thank you for watching. Your local auto parts store will have them. These came from AutoZone, or you can try Oreillys Auto Parts, Napa or Advanced Auto Parts. Depending where you are located there will be some local stores for your area. I like to pick up the parts myself but you can always try online ordering and delivery.

[@carykern6079]

Excellent, just what I needed. Thank you!

[@JohnsJeepGarage]

Thank you, I am glad it helped. I appreciate you watching our channel.

[@boristheblade0954]

What if the multimeter numbers for both the battery (brand new) and the alternator read in the good range?

[@JohnsJeepGarage]

Thank you for watching. You can contact me on either Twitter or Instagram messenger. I understand your question but I don’t understand the problem. What is occurring? If your alternator is charging your battery in the correct range, and your battery is new and fully charged, what is occurring that made you check them?

[@boristheblade0954]

@@JohnsJeepGarage Sorry for the vague comment. My jeep isn't starting (no power at all, no lights come on the dash). The battery is new so that lead me to believe that it was maybe the alternator but after checking both the batt and the alternator as you laid out, both seem to be fine. Only thing i can thing of is the battery cables arent getting a good connection..

[@JohnsJeepGarage]

Reach out on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook Messenger if you want to connect. This is my normal troubleshooting steps... first if I am trying to start it I listen to see if I hear any noise... even just a click or maybe it cranks slowly. I check the battery 12.6 V and alternator 13.5 V or higher and ensure the battery cables are "TIGHT". They can't be loose. I follow the connections down to the starter and ensure these cables are fine as well. IF I hear a click I start to think it maybe a starter if the battery, alternator and connections are OK. Especially with a new battery. I am not there so listening and evaluating the situation would help me provide better support.

[@boristheblade0954]

@@JohnsJeepGarage Thank you for the insight. It seems the positive connector wiggles a bit... it doesnt seem TIGHT so i'll try replacing the connector

[@docfromwyoming2449]

Another good vid John👍🏻

[@JohnsJeepGarage]

Thank you! I appreciate you watching. 😎✌🏼

[@princeluciano2023]

Great stuff John that 2 step safety clip had me down 30 mins 🤣🤣

[@JohnsJeepGarage]

Glad you enjoyed it. I hope it all worked out for you! Thank you for watching! 😎✌🏼