alternator

how difficult is it to get to and change the alternator on a 01 w.s.?

how difficult is it to get to and change the alternator on a 01 w.s.?
Not really difficult, you just have to disconnect the negative post of the battery, disconnect the connectors and the alternator bolts. However you will have to loose the tensionner ( at least to re-install the serpentine belt) on the pulley. You will have an easier acces to this tensionner by removing the passenger side wheel ( if you are not using a garage lift) which is under the water pump.

if you have cracks in your serpentine belt i would change it also so you don't have to bother putting one on later.

+1 on changing the belt if it hasn't been changed and you've got some miles on the van. On the reinstall part of the job, I replace the belt by hand on my 2000 windstar. It's a bit of a grunt but not that hard really. Before going to the trouble of removing the wheel, loosening the tensioner etc, take a look. Now I suppose there is some concern about pulling on the belt in an unusual alignment that could cause some twisting to the tensioner which "could" lead to premature problems down the road but I've never found that to happen. I've had my belt off and on a couple of times by hand with no problems.

Piper

As far as removing the belt.. I found it easier to put it on ramps to get to tension pulley. And take off under van.. But that may leave you to high to have access to the alternator.