So my alternator dies on me last week. (only 12k on a GM alternator, but that's a different problem)
I tried to remove it yesterday but the shorter mounting bolt that's on top is stripped out. I can't even jam a larger torx bit into it to just get it out. What's my best option for getting this thing out? I was thinking of using a dremel to notch the bolt and using a large flathead to remove it. It's in there pretty tight though. Any other ideas that might be better?

 

can you get a set of vise-grips on the head of it?

You might also use a dremel and cut both sides of the head so that and open end wrench will work. Make sure you use some PB blaster or wd-40 on it before hand.

 

When I changed to aluminum heads I had the same problem. I used a 3/8" drill bit to remove the torx head, then an easy-out to remove the bolt, easy-outs work great as long as you get the hole drilled for it as close & straight down the center of the bolt as possible.
Welding a hex head bolt on to it is another option.

 

several people make easy out type sockets that fit over the head

 

What everyone else has said is the usual routes.

Make sure u use a good penetrating oil like PB blaster or the like.

Heat is another good one for siezed materials in aluminum, however you need to be careful and not melt it down :-)

The easy out style sockets are usually sold as some type of "turbo" socket and basically have swedges in it so u can pound it onto the offending bolt or nut and it will grip as it is pounded on and let u take it off.

Can get them at Sears and the like.

later
Jeremy

 

All the above will work, Torx can be a real curse even with decent sockets.
Heat is usually the big shifter of all things corroded, but of course with aluminium, and especially aluminium filled with electrical components, take care. I would be using oxy-acetylene with a very fine tip at work, or mig weld a nut over whats left as mentioned above.
Drillings fine if you have a good eye and sharp bits, and a set of taps to clean up if you have,nt.

 

Thanks for the replies. I'm gonna try to find a set of turbo sockets later and if that doesn't work I'm gonna try squaring off the head for an open end...that seems like it would offer the most grip. If all else fails I'll drill it and use an easy out, but it's not really a straight shot.

 

What if you just grind the end right off the bolt? Once the alt. is out itll be easy to get the bolt out W/ some visegrips.

 

I thought about that but my bracket is powdercoated and I don't want to risk hitting it if I don't have to.