Removal and installation the generator (BMW 5 Series E28)

If your vehicle's radio is equipped with an anti-theft system, make sure you know the correct activation code before disconnecting the battery. Refer to Section 1 for information before disconnecting the wire Anti-theft audio system and instrument cluster language.

If a message in another language appears on the instrument cluster dial after connecting the battery, refer to Section 1 for the language setting procedure Anti-theft audio system and instrument cluster language.

Removal

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.



2. Disconnect the electrical connectors from the alternator, making a note of their locations. Depending on the amount of equipment on the vehicle, it may sometimes be easier to first remove the alternator from its brackets, then turn it to the side to provide access to the connectors (shown by arrows), located on the rear wall of the generator.

On some models, it may be necessary to remove the air cleaner and air flow meter to gain access to the generator.

3. Loosen the adjusting and mounting bolts of the generator and remove the drive belt (see chapter Routine car maintenance).



4. Remove the adjusting and mounting bolts and separate the generator from the engine.

Installation

If you are replacing an alternator, take the old alternator with you when you purchase a new or refurbished one. Make sure the new alternator is identical to the old one. Pay attention to the contacts - there should be the same number of them, they should have the same connectors and location as on the old alternator. Finally, pay attention to the identification numbers - they are stamped on the body or printed on a label attached to the body. Make sure that the numbers are the same on both alternators.

Many new alternators do not come with a pulley, so it may be necessary to transfer the pulley from the old alternator to the new one.

1. Installation is the reverse of removal.

2. After installing the generator, tighten the drive belt (see chapter Routine car maintenance). Check the charging voltage to ensure that the generator is operating correctly (see section Checking the charging system).

(Information taken from this resource «BMWMAN»)