Alternator?

[sweetskillsrk]

So my cousins 86' 325's alternator is shot. I usually deal with my 88 P-car and old Ford work vehicles, so I have no experience with a BMW. I am a pretty handy guy with a good amount of tools (small socket set, vise-grips, etc). How difficult is it to replace the alternator on a car like this? Is there a good step-by-step procedure online I can use? (haven't been able to find a Haynes Manual). Are there any special tools I need to have before I try to do this? Also how long would replacing the alternator take?
Thanks a lot in advance.

[sweetskillsrk]

Scratch that, 86' 528.

[Manolito]

I have not done one on that model, but in general, the alternators on my BMWs have been easier to work with than the alternators on my Volvos, and neither was a big deal. That alternator should run you $150 to $200, depending on which one you have.

3/8" drive metric sockets, extensions, metric end-wrenches, and you should be good.

Are you sure that it is the alternator and not just the voltage regulator? Is the bearing shot? That alternator has a voltage regulator/brush assembly that attaches to the back of it with two screws. The brushes last about 150k miles and have to be replaced. It is easier to replace the whole voltage regulator ($30) than to solder in new brushes ($5). When I was young and poor I used to solder in new brushes, but I don't bother anymore.

You would be a real hero if you pulled off the voltage regulator and found two little worn out stubs of brushes, and you soldered in new ones for $5 when he plans on spending $200.

[Yurick]

Replacing the alternator should not be too bad of a deal and I cannot think of any special tools that you might need. Be sure to replace all belts while you are in there.

Forget Haynes - go for the Bentley manual.