Ok..is there a preferred brand? Is this something easy for a newbie to do?

 

I believe Denso is the OE, and most remans are going to be on that base anyway.

Preferred alternator replacement strategies are, in order of both reliability AND cost:

1) Rebuild it yourself ($10 to $30 depending upon brushes only or brushes + bearings)
2) working junk car take-off (~$60)
3) Have it rebuilt at local specialty shop ($120)
3) Retail re-built unit, Denso is likely to be the body but quality of rebuilds very greatly and inconsistent even from one source. ($110 to $200 based on source).

Very big issue with quality control on rebuilt units, either online or from auto parts stores. Components are not consistent and always compatible.

You can install one pretty easily with no special tools. Rebuilding require a bench, vise, BFH, and gear puller (can get free loaner from auto parts store). Not brain surgery, but not a kitchen-table project.

Be sure to disconnect battery before you disconnect anything on the alt. It is easy to blow the main fuse and while it is not expensive ($5), it is VERY much a PITA to replace because the air box and fuse box both have to come out to get at, and it's still awkward to do after that.

 

You have an 01 correct? If you're interested, I just put an alternator in from an 01 toyota highlander. The highlander has the same v6 3.0 engine that year, so it's a direct fit.
You'll be sitting at 130 amps instead of the stock 70amp. Just food for thought.

To answer your question, it can be tricky but it's fairly straightforward.

 

A friend whose hubby is a mechanic replaced the alternator for me and it did not fix the problem. He thinks the starter is not disengaging ...that there is an air leak somewhere...and maybe the power steering something. I have noticed the whining changes as I move the gear to reverse...and it is starting to have a lag before it will engage. The tyranny fluid level looks good with no weird smells. Any new information? ?




QUOTE=drkandre;8781679]You have an 01 correct? If you're interested, I just put an alternator in from an 01 toyota highlander. The highlander has the same v6 3.0 engine that year, so it's a direct fit.
You'll be sitting at 130 amps instead of the stock 70amp. Just food for thought.

To answer your question, it can be tricky but it's fairly straightforward.[/QUOTE]

 

Fairly easy to replace, just be sure to undo neg battery cable. I did mine last year. Picked a rebuilt from Autozone for $80., lifetime warranty . It went out this spring and got a replacement free!