X5 3.0 Alternator and belts DIY (with pictures!)

[GXL]

Thanks for the link, Generx!

I don't have time to make the fan tool, so I'm goig to buy it.

Thanks again!

GXL

[GXL]

Is this the one I need:

eBay Motors: BMW GM Fan Clutch Nut Wrench Water Pump Hub Holder Tool (item 370167604741 end time Mar-05-09 20:00:40 PST)

[generx]

Yup, that's it. Good deal if it includes the 32mm wrench (I'd make sure it does include it)

[upoyX5MR2]

great job !!! thanks

[lo_jack]

Thanks for the write up. This also happens to be the first, and most, of the process to change the oil filter housing seal, should you need to do that also. The housing is exposed in your final picture of the engine bay with the alternator removed. The bolts under the power steering reservoir are the ones you pull for that.

The rest of the process is the same, as you must pull the alternator to get to that housing.

You did two write ups in one. Double word score.

[Thom]

Speaking of that....does anyone else have a leaking power steering fluid res tank ?
I put a "rad clamp" on the hose on the bottom when I did my alternator.
Still seems to leak a bit though ??

[lo_jack]

I thought I might mention that my alternator (2001 3.0) has a threaded bushing pressed into the lower mounting tab of the alternator. That bushing is pulled proud of the inside of the alternator mounting tab into a receiver cast into the oil filter housing when you tighten the lower bolt down.

To reinstall the alternator without wasting a lot of time and giving the alternator a lot of dumb looks, you should press the bushing back out so it is flush with the mounting tab, and it will slide right into place.

[GXL]

The 32mm fan tool is the same size on the 4.4i as it's on the 3.0i ?

[GXL]

yes, no?

[GXL]

Nada?