Explorer Serpentine bracket clearance issue

[mnido]

Attached are two photos of the alternator bracket and pulley clearance, and bracket clearance. I am good with the pulley clearance (3/8'') but the bracket clearance to the frame is tight (1/8"). I am considering notching the frame and re-welding (pull the motor, maybe) or notching the aluminum bracket a tad. Anyone else run into this clearance issue and if so what did you do?

 

[SC74]

Yes, it's common. I was lucky and had a hair more clearance than you - maybe b/c I have the extreme motor mounts that pick the motor up aprox 1/2". That may be worth looking into if you have hood clearance.

 

[xcntrk]

Most folks just "clearance" the crossmember in that location.

 

[needabronco]

Don't cut the frame, notch, bend, weld....... NOT worth the time. Spend 'maybe' 30 seconds with a grinder and clearance the bracket!

 

[Viperwolf1]

You can also shim the motor mounts 1/8" or so.

 

[Izzy]

I agree with the other. Grind the bracket back some or get you some extreme motor mounts. I did both but really only needed to do the motor mounts.

 

[ilovemaui]

I have not had that problem with mine.

 

[73azbronco]

use extreme motor mounts or shim the regular ones. I really hate to cut and notch a frame, both the vehicles and the pulley bracket.

 

[KyleQ]

I cut that cross member totally out of the truck.... well before I swaped my serp setup. I needed the room for up-travel with where I mounted my steering cylinder-

Grind on either one - that cross member is overkill and the brackets are easy to grind.

 

[mnido]

Thanks for all the input !

 

[Vintagehoss]

I had the same problem when I did a test install of the engine. I marked the area on the frame and pulled the engine back out. I put the largest tip on my oxy/acet torch and heated the area red and used a BF ball peen hammer, to provide about 1/4 inch clearance. The aft edge needs more adjustment then the forward part of the frame rail.

 

[mnido]

Thanks all, I think I am going to grind the bracket a little..

 

[904Bronco]

There is also a post on classic where someone discovered a smaller pulley to run from NAPA for more clearance as well... Sorry I do not have the pt number with me at work...

 

[mnido]

There is also a post on classic where someone discovered a smaller pulley to run from NAPA for more clearance as well... Sorry I do not have the pt number with me at work...

Yes, I have that post. Pulley clearance is good. Thanks !
NAPA part # 36079

 

[73azbronco]

whatch out that pulley is thermoplastic vs metal.