Thanks for the useful info.
I know this question is over a year old at this time, but just now (95,500 miles U.S.) had to replace the alternator.Has anyone tried removing only the 4 bolts connecting the fan to the coupling instead of removing the big 32mm bolt?
I agree. There are several aftermarket new and rebuilt alternators out there that could very well have better reliability and longer service life than the Bosch OEM has proven, but for some reason I stuck with the Bosch....I would only go for a manufacture(bosch) re manufactured replacement .
In the past on another M62 motor I had luck by holding the pulley (wearing a leather glove) with my left hand, and whacking the wrench with a hammer. Remember these are reverse threaded so you remove it by turning clockwise!Hi, I am hoping for a quick response. I am in the middle of replacing my alternator and found that removing the fan bolt is not easy. biggest question is how do I prevent the waterpump from spinning so that I can remove the fan bolt. I don't have a second bolt to counter act against.
A LONG LARGE flat screwdriver can be wedged between the shaft and one of the 4 bolts to provide the necessary leverage - and a tap on the LONG 32 spanner with a hammer should free it. If you have a helper, even better.In the past on another M62 motor I had luck by holding the pulley (wearing a leather glove) with my left hand, and whacking the wrench with a hammer. Remember these are reverse threaded so you remove it by turning clockwise!
But I have since spent a measly $35 for a M62 fan clutch removal tool kit off ebay. FAR easier!
The alternator has an o-ring seal that you'll need if the replacement doesn't come with it. I recommend using sealant in addition to the o-ring, due to vibration and heat.I'm getting ready to tackle this job on an 2004 range rover. So far I've ordered the below items, i'll also be picking up and replacing both belts. Is there anything else that might be needed?
http://www.ebay.com/itm/192008781449 BMW 32mm Fan Clutch Wrench Water Pump Holder Removal Tool
http://www.ebay.com/itm/161333850276 ALTERNATOR 4.4L 4.6L 5.4L BMW 540 750 X5 & RANGE ROVER 1999-2009
It did come with the o-ring, when I was in at autozone buying my replacement antifreeze they printed me out the technical bulliten about making sure that the o-ring didn't come loose in shipping. I didn't use sealant, but i'm not going back in there at this point unless there is a leak.The alternator has an o-ring seal that you'll need if the replacement doesn't come with it. I recommend using sealant in addition to the o-ring, due to vibration and heat.
If you're in there, I'd replace the belts if they show any cracks.