'01 X5 4.4i DIY Alternator replacement advice
 

As per threads I've read on this forum, I need to replace my alternator and belt. Also want to replace ac belt. Quoted $1500 at dealer...which will be closer to 2k when completed I'm sure. Don't know why so much, rebuilds after core are less than $400. Dealer told me alt alone is $980.

Please post DIY pics procedure etc. or point me to a link. I've done some research, removed top air scoop, lower splash pan, at first I thought I just needed to replace belt. I can't see the belt replacement being done without removing the fan, I read somewhere on this forum it was possible without removing fan. Do I actually need a special wrench(s) to remove fan? Or can I make my own? If I can please advise. As I'm pretty sure I'll need fan and shroud out of the way for alt/belt replacement.

Anyone know of a good indie in Las Vegas?

Thank you so much.

2001 X5 4.4i 75K miles

you neeed to rent an air chisel and that will pop off the nut, remember to loosen is clockwise. then all you have to do is take the belts off and the seven bolts holding the alternator in place. make sure you get a new oring gasket for the alternator. autozone has a remanufactured one for 400.00. goodluck

mine was replaced 2000 x5 4.4 250k miles on it, dont forget the
alternator is watercooled and other thinks are in need to replace when you due Job, would due some more resurge!!!!!!!!!!! had mine at the dealer was about $ 1700.-

Kuddel

Some member here posted that 01 4.4 alternator location could be very similar to E38 and provided a link as the following:

How to Replace Alternator in a 99, 00, 01 740il

To take off cooling (i.e clutch) fan, use 1.25 inch rench to hold clutch fan bolts and a mallet to hit the rench suddenly towards driver side. This would loosen the bolt on the fan and allow you to turn the fan off. No special tool needed.

Good luck.

German Motors on Industrial is where I take my X5. It's mostly a Mercedes shop but they work on all German cars. Not the cheapest place but they do good work and are honest. PPR Automotive is a lot cheaper but it's more of a hole in the wall kind of operation. Ralph over at PPR is a good guy though and remembers every customer.

I 'd like to second the recommendation of PPR.

The have changed locations to a much nicer area. Ralph is really a good guy.

They did change their name to JPR Automotive Inc.

$325 here:

BMW Alternator Water Cooled 540 740 750 X5 E38 E39:eBay Motors (item 260467384616 end time Sep-23-09 14:49:51 PDT)