How to replace alternator decoupler on Dodge Avenger (Fix loud engine noise!)

How to replace alternator decoupler on Dodge Avenger (Fix loud engine noise!)

This is a fast-paced tutorial for the alternator decoupler pulley on a 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014 Dodge Avenger. But because they share the same platform this video would also be relevant to the Chrysler 200, Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Journey equipped with a 2.4 liter 4 cylinder engine.

Replacing the alternator decoupler pulley can fix a grinding or whining noise that increases with engine RPM. The decoupler has an internal bearing that fails and results in this weird sound shown at 0:21. The Dodge Avenger has a notorious issue with the alternator decoupler pulley. When this decoupler fails it can make a similar grinding, whining or moaning sound.

Since you need to remove the serpentine belt and the lower idler pulley to access the lower alternator mounting bolt, this is a good opportunity to replace them both.

Here are some links to the parts I install in this video:

Alternator Decoupler Pulley – https://www.oreillyauto.com/detail/b/gates-3728/charging—starting-16772/alternator-decoupler-pulley-15926/3691bef3a26b/gates-pulley/37018p/4334357/2008/dodge/avenger?q=Alternator+Decoupler+Pulley&pos=0

Idler Pulley – https://www.oreillyauto.com/detail/b/drivealign-3742/belts-hoses-16454/tensioners-and-pulleys-25070/pulley-idler-12829/f4e5ff97a50c/gates-drivealign-idler-pulley/36323/4347854/2008/dodge/avenger?q=36323&pos=0

Serpentine Belt – https://www.oreillyauto.com/detail/b/micro-v-3716/belts-hoses-16454/belts-25068/belt—serpentine-type-12828/c92a524fe09d/gates-micro-v-serpentine-belt/k061015/6286122/2008/dodge/avenger?q=belt&pos=3

I always perform repairs according the factory service manual. You need to have all the information (toque specs, testing procedures and schematics) to insure you’ve pinpointed the actual problem and to insure your vehicle is safe after you’ve completed your repairs. You download high quality factory service manuals here: http://shrsl.com/1llp5-11y0-aya4

Here is a list of tools I use in this video in order of which they appear: 15mm socket, electric impact driver, serpentine belt tool with a 16mm socket, 19mm socket or lug wrench, 10mm socket, pocket screwdriver, 1/4 drive flex head ratchet, 3/8 drive flex head ratchet, 16mm socket, 13mm socket, small hammer (not pictured), large flat blade screwdriver, 17mm Hex (Allen) socket.

This video features original music by KaiChow Lau. Check out his soundcloud here: https://soundcloud.com/kaichowlau

Lightning Fix is a fast-paced DIY repair series meant to guide people though repairs in a quick and effective manner.

Follow me on instagram @https://www.instagram.com/garretseesi…

You can listen to my original music on soundcloud @ https://soundcloud.com/user3041617

#Dodge #DodgeAvenger #LightningFix

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Comments

Ryan Pucci says:

Wouldnt it just be easier to replace the whole alternator then to waste days gettin that off

Ian Wilkinson says:

Thanks Garret, big help and excellent video.

Firestone says:

Did your alternator stop charge the battery ?

Steve Randall says:

This looks similar to the POS freewheel-in-one-direction pulley Ford used on the alternator of the 4.6 engine used in the Crown Victoria, (but at least they were easy to get at). Those stupid things sidelined many police cars because they would fail often due to the heavy load placed on the alternator by all the police equipment, the long periods of idling time and the high under-hood temperatures during idle.

lv5 millwright says:

This was my issue thanks!

Kevin Snead says:

This was a big help in replacing the decoupling pulley on my 2009 Avenger. Thanks!

Grunt Minski says:

I took mine off and it just spins both ways. How can i remove the pulley?

Bill Rimmer says:

These videos r excellent!! But even better is when u talk. U have an excellent knowledge of stuff, and I would rather hear u telling is about your Pinto, or what u like about scooters. That ding ding music is not very educational.

Edwards Garage74 says:

When did Bam Margera become a mechanic?

Jonathan Deleon says:

That 10mm bolt was a pain in the ass (lol)

Rich Smith says:

This is an excellent & straight to the point video. Thanks.

Lost Hero says:

Thanks for this video my car barley started making this weird noise it not loud but I'm sure this is what it is gonna order everything this week and try do it myself

Perla Leal says:

This was a really great before and after. My car sounds like its ready to go 100 mph in 6 seconds when I turn on my car ha ha.

Lyndsay Fleming says:

What if your decoupler pulley wont come off? I'm using an impact wrench and a 17mm hex driver and it just keeps spinning

MrBlaze256 says:

More stupid stuff on these new cars. I hate that they only run one belt as older cars have separate ones. Ac compressor lock up and still have a belt for alternator and water pump

Keith Nutley says:

Thanks for the Video as tomorrow I'll be replacing the de-coupler pulley, tensioner and idler on a 2.4 Sebring. All failed at the same time so I'll replace the belt as well. Many thanks.

FLJAMESFL says:

Awesome video bro.

Carmelito Aguilera Flores says:

Awesome, i don't know of any other channel working on the avenger

Sciatl says:

Great information

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