E60 (535i) - Do I need to remove the oil cooler to replace the alternator?

TheObjectivist

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Jul 12, 2019
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Hi guys- I suspect the alternator is kaput in my 2008 535i

Do I need to remove the oil cooler housing to get to the alternator bolts?
I'm ordering parts and want to know if I should buy the OC gaskets and bolts


Seems the 335i crowd doesnt need to the touch the OC, but im not 100% if the E60s are different.


Also, the alternator bolts are one time use, yes?
 

SLOWESTN54

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If you can get the serpentine belt off without removing the oil cooler lines, then you don't need to remove them. From what I remember i believe you have to remove them to access the tensioner.
 
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TheObjectivist

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Jul 12, 2019
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2008 BMW 535i
If you can get the serpentine belt off without removing the oil cooler lines, then you don't need to remove them. From what I remember i believe you have to remove them to access the tensioner.
Gotcha, gotcha

Youre saying if I can get a torx on the tensioner, slip the belt, I could unbolt the alternator?
 

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dmckmc

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Aug 12, 2022
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E60 535i 2008
The intake and a/c compressor will be in your way. One of them has to give. Manual states to loosen the a/c compressor bracket to make room though the compressor does not need to be removed or system evacuated. I cheated and shaved off the corner of my intake near the alternator. I have the modified, silicone inlet tubes and the OEM air box is long gone so I was not worried about a permanent mod.
 
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TheFixer

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Aug 16, 2020
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If you haven't pulled your alternator yet......

The alternators usually don't go bad. It's the regulator inside that goes bad. You can easily replace the regulator with the alternator in the car.

Watch this. It's an n54 e90.... but same process.