i don't know.. i've tried rotating it, but it's getting caught between the frame rail, the oil filter and the axle damper. I dont know what else to do other than blow it up and get it out that way :-o

 

Did you try everything mentioned in my post above? Also try rotating the alternator so that the pulley is pointed toward the rear of the car.

By the way, after you succeed in replacing the alternator, you might want to consider replacing the oil pan gasket. I think it may have a substantial oil leak.

 

yeah, i turned the wheels all the way to either side, but the damper only moves maybe a centimeter.. I tried taking it out pulley side first and back end first, but it just wont get past the damper

 

The alternator is simply testing your perseverance, patience, and resolve. I have the same exact 97 Civic DX, and have successfully removed the alternator when my Civic had the stock axle with a damper. The alternator comes out through the opening shown in your leftmost picture. The solution is to patiently rotate the alternator in many different positions and move the wheel to a position that creates the greatest opening. Also test whether the damper will bend slightly out of the way.

 

Try rotating the alternator sideways so that the alternator pulley is facing the rear or front of the car.

 

I'll try that in a few minutes... I'm taking a break so i don't break something I think i may wait until my brother can come over tonight.. In the meantime, i'm gonna paint my valve cover.

 

Great idea. Sometimes taking a relaxing break will make all the difference in the world.

As mk mentioned above, no weight of the car is sitting on the front wheels, right?

 

nope, front end is on jackstands with the splash guard and driver wheel off

 

Just wanted to update you... My brother came over and we decided to pull the axle and hub. Pulled the axle out of the tranny and the alternator dropped right through, put the new one in and then replaced the axle. Tried to put the alternator in the bottom bracket and it wouldn't fit, so we had to take off the bracket and hammer the sleeve to make more room. Remounted the bracket and put the alternator back in and tightened everything down.. Now i'm down a quart of tranny fluid from taking the axle out, still have the valve cover off painting it, but the alternator is back in! What a fun day of working on the car...