Just changed the alternator on my '88 4 cyl. Went pretty smooth except the bolt head securing the left end of the brace twisted off. The bolt is broken off into the threaded hole.

I finished the job, but don't know if I can clear that bolt hole. Can I run without the brace?

Bolt broke In intake manifold? I think Bracket/brace protect tension bracket. GM doesn't spend a penny w/o a good reason.
Likely won't break right away.

Fix?
Need to drill then use easy out.

Can use a long bit and drill thru trunk wall for access or maybe 90° drill and short bit to save you pulling intake.

Carefully Warm the AL w/ propane torch to loosen the bolt. Shock the drilled bolt w/ "canned Air" upside down or Freeze-Off.
try that a few cycle... warm Al, stock bolt, repeat.
If use lube than give time to work.

Warm means warm/hot to your hand only. More can damage the intake.
Avoid heating the bolt directly.

Harbor freight sells a set of left hand drill bits, many times they will pull the broken bolt out while you are drilling a hole for the easy out. They only cost a few dollars. Larry

Thanks for the suggestions. I will try going through the trunk wall.

quote Originally posted by trotterlg: Harbor freight sells a set of left hand drill bits, many times they will pull the broken bolt out while you are drilling a hole for the easy out. They only cost a few dollars. Larry

Many time doesn't work on bolts in Al parts. Bolt is harder that intake and still broke likely because electrolysis corrosion.
Soak in freeze-off first a few day, spray 1-2 each day.
Don't be in a hurry in either method.

Not sure if intake can use helicoil in that bolt. Those will need Al space to accept a double size hole and the tap to install.

I was thinking of fabricating a new brace that attaches somewhere else. Haven't found a suitable location yet. Maybe an existing bolt located nearby the broken bolt. Anyone ever done this or seen it done?

quote Originally posted by theogre: Not sure if intake can use helicoil in that bolt. Those will need Al space to accept a double size hole and the tap to install.

I looked... If 88 is like 87... that area won't take a helicoil.

Making a new bracket?
Maybe. No clue if can be done or works.