alternator cover removal

so i got the 3 allen bolts loose but something at the bottow is keeping the cover connected. the picture in my Clymer manual isnt very helpful and after the allen bolts it says to "straighten the wire clamps securing the two electrical cables." i didnt see any clamps. it looks like a bundle of wires connecting to the cover. couldnt even see yet but im gonna guess that i should replace the brushes just for good measure since im trying to open it up anyway. how do i get the cover off the rest of the way?

 

The wires coming from the brushes go through a rubber grommet that is probably what is holding the cover on. Just work it a bit and pull. Just don't pull too hard so you don't jerk the wires loose from the brushes which are mounted inside the cover.

 

ok, it looked like a rubber slot and it looks like all the wires connect so i didnt want to try to hard and break it. unfortunately, i havent had much time for the XJ lately but im making some time for it this weekend.

 

I'll back Max up, that wire grommet can be a bit of a trick. A shot of WD-40 will help ease things along. Another issue is the cover gasket. I've broken every one that I pulled, just a hazard of the process (anyone want to enlighten me?), expect to replace it.

 

ha, i didnt even see a gasket.

 

Unless a PO removed it you will find a little piece of gasket attached to the cover right where it hits the wiring grommet. The rest of it will be stuck to the alternator housing.

 

I saved my gasket. It didn't rip. I put some Elmer's on the back side and set it back where it belongs. Then, wiped the front side with a thin smear of waterproof grease. Stays on the engine now when I have a peek at how the Brushes are doing.