I effed up.

[lucky_1_chris]

Moving a little too quickly and heavy handed I broke the center alternator mounting bolt. Top bolt was HARD to break loose, but it came out easy once it did. Expecting the same from the center bolt and I went at it a little (lot) too hard.

Any of you made the same mistake? I notice that the hole is drilled and tapped all the way through. It's soaking in penetrating oil right now, and I'm gonna leave it alone til tomorrow. It's broken off flush with the case, of course... Gonna slot it tomorrow and see if I can back it out or run it all the way through. Ran one of the other bolts in with my finger from the back all the way to the broken bolt no problem. If I can get it to move hopefully I can just drive it through. I do have a right angle drill, but there ain't much room at all. Prolly need some short bits.

If it gives me too much trouble, are the top and bottom bolts sufficient, or is it necessary to use all three? I'd much rather do it right, but if it ends up taking too much time I'd just as soon take care of it if/when the engine ever needs to be pulled. Still gotta replace the alternator and that damn center cover (I hate that thing), shifter shaft seal, and change the oil on my bike, then change the tires and re-torque the steering head bearings on my brother's 1300. I don't wanna spend too much time on that damn bolt if it's not necessary.

Sorry for the long post.

[eric in md]

i broke mine  75 thousand miles ago never did fix it . i did glue a chrome cover over the hole after you mount the alt back up .. just use anti seize on the other too you will be fine .

[Tropic traveler]

Bought my '99 with the center alternator bolt already broken. I have no idea how long it's been broken but I've put 5k miles on with no problemos. I stuck a chrome snap cap over the hole & unless you knew something about Valks you'd never notice anything was amiss. 
Got a new chrome bolt in the stash for when I get around to it. 

[Ricky-D]

I hope Sodbuster reads this thread.

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