Removing alternatore from a 3.2 six
 

Just got a 914 with a 3.2 six. The alternator has to come out because of a wildly fluctuating voltage output. 12 to 14 sometimes spiking to 17. Has anyone with a six removed the alternator while the engine was in the car? Is it easier to pull the engine? Has anyone cut an access panel in the firewall to make it easier to get to the alternator or v belt or to set timing etc.? If you have an access panel, pics would be appreciated. Is it easier to remove the fuel injection to get the shroud off? What have you found to be the easiest way to do this? Thanks.
Cheers, Elliot

It can be done but it is a pain in the ass.

Take the motor out, you'll be much happier in the long run.

Dunno about the alternator, but FWIW this is my method of dealing with fanbelt & timing on my 3.2 that makes it just "headache" & not "nightmare", without cutting the firewall (there's a reason it's called that......)

1) remove the coil
2) To lock the fan, make up a bracket as shown that mounts to the coil bracket studs & bolts to the Porsche C-spanner.
3) Apply a thin smear of grease to all the little shims to keep them in place while you juggle with belt/nut/washer/retainer ring etc etc.
4) For timing, ignore the pulley, go to the other end of the engine & view the flywheel through the notch in the transmission.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1160556239.jpg