How difficult is it to install a 65 amp alternator?

[Guest Anonymous]

I've read the articles on installing the earlier e21 alternator and installing the e30 318i alternator but can anyone tell me what is involved in installing the later e21 65 amp alternator?

[Guest Anonymous]

just different brackets, need to pull the cooling fan, and the braces. then jump a wire, unplug the voltage regulator, etc... it's pretty easy and a quick job.

[Will75Fjords]

There's a 528i 65amp alternator that fits on the original brackets. . . you do have to use the 528i pulley and different belt though (875 maybe?) . . .

[Guest Anonymous]

wouldn't that be better than a 65 amp unit? no such thing as too many amps right?

[ingraham]

Fits perfectly mechanically, except that you may need to grind down the front end of the shaft. Simple electrical conversion -- remove existing external regulator and route the existing field wire to the alternator.

Bosch AL41X fits. It is usually 55 amps, sometimes 65 amps. AL44X is 65 amps, but I don't know if that fits.