12 31 020 Removing and installing/replacing alternator (M60, M62): Notes

Follow instructions for disconnecting and connecting battery, see 12 00 Instructions For Disconnecting And Connecting Battery . .

Switch off ignition.

Disconnect and cover battery negative lead.

Remove alternator drive belt,

Refer to SPECIFICATIONS & DRIVE BELT ROUTING .

Alternator with air cooling:

Unfasten screw connection on oil-filter housing.

Fig 1: Identifying Screw On Oil Filter Housing

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Place oil-filter housing to one side.

Fig 2: Placing Oil Filter Housing To One Side

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Disconnect alternator connections.

Fig 3: Disconnecting Alternator Connections

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Connections illustrated here on removed alternator.

Disconnect plug connection (1).

Unscrew nut (2).

Tightening torque, see 12 31 1AZ in ENGINE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - TIGHTENING TORQUE .

Fig 4: Disconnecting Plug Connection

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Unfasten cable clip (1).

Fig 5: Identifying Cable Clip

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Unclip cooling air guide.

Fig 6: Unclipping Cooling Air Guide

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Unfasten screws (1 to 3).

Fig 7: Identifying Screws

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Pull out alternator towards front.

Fig 8: Pulling Out Alternator Towards Front

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Pull alternator upwards to remove.

CAUTION: Do not damage cooling fins!

Fig 9: Pulling Alternator Upwards To Remove

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If necessary, replace alternator belt pulley, refer to 12 31... REPLACING ALTERNATOR BELT PULLEY

Alternator with liquid cooling:

WARNING: Danger of scalding!
Only perform these tasks on an engine that has cooled down.

Remove fan impeller and fan clutch from water pump, refer to 11 52 020 REMOVING AND INSTALLING OR REPLACING FAN COUPLING (M62) .

Drain coolant,

refer to 17 00 005 DRAINING AND TOPPING UP COOLANT .

NOTE: Fill cooling system after completing work. Vent cooling system and check for leaks,
refer to COOLING SYSTEM - REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS .

Release screws (1) on alternator.

Fig 10: Identifying Screws On Alternator

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unscrew bolt (1).

Remove battery lead (2).

Tightening torque, see 12 31 1AZ in ENGINE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - TIGHTENING TORQUE .

Disconnect plug (3).

Release screw (4) and lay roller to one side.

Release remaining 3 screws (5) on alternator.

Fig 11: Releasing Remaining Screws On Alternator

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

A residual quantity of coolant emerges when the alternator is removed.

Recycling

Catch and dispose of escaping coolant.
Observe country-specific waste-disposal regulations.

Pull out alternator towards front.

NOTE: If necessary, disconnect upper coolant hose to assist removal.