Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Cleaning & Inspection
Wash all metal parts except stator and rotor assemblies. Clean bearings and inspect for sealing, pitting or roughness. Slip rings may be cleaned with 400 grain polishing cloth (rotate shaft while cleaning to prevent flat sports on rings). Slip ring maximum out of round limit is.001" (Cadillac & Chevrolet) and.002" (Buick & Oldsmobile). Turn slip rings in a lathe to correct and remove only sufficient material to make rings smooth and round. Polish with crocus cloth while spinning rotor in lathe and blow away all dust.
If brushes worn more than halfway, replace.
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.