Q: Replacing alternator on my 2000 Rav4. Is there a bolt under alternator on bottom left?

asked by on May 07, 2017

i replaced my alternator. i was tightening the tension bolt last trying to tighten the belt and it bottomed out and snapped. as i'm going to replace that bolt, i notice the bracket isn't fastened to anything. seems as though there's a bolt missing that fastens the bracket to the engine mount. is that right? if so, HOW do i get in there to install that bolt?

My car has 410000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Alternator Replacement $166.62 - $1297.14 Get a Quote

The adjusting bracket has one bolt, Toyota Part number 91621-60845. The adjusting bolt that you broke is part number 90119-08299. This bolt should not bottom out so you should check for the possibility that the belt is the wrong size or worn. For a used used belt, the tension should be set to 100 pounds and you must use a gauge, otherwise there is no way to tell what the tension is. As far as the bracket that holds the alternator, that bracket is bolted to the engine with three bolts, all part number 91651-G1028. All kinds of articulated and remote access specialty tools are used to access bolts and parts. I can guarantee the bolt that you are referring to is accessible but I would have to see it to specify exactly which tool to use. More likely than not you will have to buy an adapter. Even after 30 years, I am still buying them and sometimes have to make them on the lathe. A certified mechanic will have all the required tools and can finish this up for you if you desire. Simply use YourMechanic’s alternator installation page; obviously you will only be charged for the time required to resolve the bolt issue, adjust the belt (or install a new one) and test charging output. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Check Engine light coming on after timing belt replacement.
Hi there. Fault P0018 after a timing belt replacement generally indicates that at least 1 cam is off timing, usually by one one tooth if the engine still runs well. The correlation fault is saying that the crankshaft position in...
Brake fluid leaking
If the vehicle is leaking brake fluid, I would stop driving it, and have it serviced as soon as possible as your braking system is essential to road safety. Braking systems operate using hydraulic pressure, so any leaks are a...
Battery light is on durign acceleration or on bumpy roads
When the battery light comes on in vehicles it is due to the voltage falling below the required 12.6 volts. This voltage is required for all the vehicles' electrical systems to work properly. The most common causes of the battery...
Smelling has while driving
This could be many possibilities such as a fuel leak (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/oil-fluid-leak-inspection), or a problem with the air/fuel mixture (i.e. running to rich) which could be a result of many possibilities. I would suggest having a certified expert, like one from...
Driver side rear shock is leaking oil the set only has about 2500 miles on them? they are coil over shocks.
Hello. A shock is not always bad, but if you see some residue oil leaking from the shock then it may not be functioning fully. If you see a really wet and dripping shock, then it should be replaced. The...
Will go in reverse not forward what are the choices I have
If the fluid level is correct, and there are still no forward gears, there is most likely a problem inside the transmission. Typically, if it were something outside of the transmission, both the forward and reverse gears would be affected....
Do I need new gaskets when replacing the Y-pipe back?
Hi. Yes you should put in new gaskets for your exhaust system. If you do not replace the gaskets there is the potential that the old gasket will leak and cause exhaust noise. When replacing anything that has a gasket...
How much does it cost to install a timing belt on a Chevrolet Cruze LS?
Billing question sent to CS for the cost of replacing a timing belt on a 2013 Chevrolet Cruze LS.
I have a Toyota 2003 echo my car goes into gear it just dosent have the power to go sounds like it's grinding and forcing it self
Hi there. When a car has acceleration issues as you've described, more often than not, it's due to transmission problems. This can range from inner seals or gaskets being damaged to a torque converter that is worn out. It can...

Related articles

Can a Car Battery Overheat in Hot Weather?
Hot weather can cause battery fluid to evaporate and make it hard to start your car. Battery overcharging decreases the lifespan of your battery.
The Best Used Cars to Buy for Short Commutes
If If you’re lucky enough to have a short commute to work, then you need to consider different factors when buying a used car than someone with a lengthier drive (or more time stuck in traffic). Chances are good that...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You're Towing a Boat
If If you’re towing a boat, the vehicle that you buy is largely going to depend on the size and weight of your boat plus trailer. Most cars, realistically, aren’t cut out for the job. We recommend a pickup truck...