Took belt off, fired up the SAV. Still whining, but only the good whine that I'm used to.
The alternator bearing is toast. (I guess I can consider that a blessing compared to drivetrain costs.)
Searching for a Bosch AL0734X returns a few better prices than what Tischer BMW is asking.
Turner Motorsport - Item# AL0734X - Bosch Alternator - 150 amp (water cooled) - 1999-2003 E39 540i, E38 740i & E53 X5 V8 - E38 E39 X5
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