M42 Alternator Bushings

[JHZR2]

Hi,

While this is related to the alternator, it isnt an electrical question.

My 91 318i has 140k miles.  In the cold, the alternator has started to whine when it is loaded, but just for a few seconds at startup.  

Ive noticed that the alternator does not sit square.  From searching, it seems that this indicates that the bushings are bad.  So I need to replace them.

I dont have access to a press.  Can I manually replace the bushings, or do they need to be pressed in?  I believe they look like this:



Any info would be appreciated.

Thanks!

[keflaman]

If you're talking about items #2 and #3 in this illustration http://bmwfans.info/parts/catalog/E30/2-doors/USA/318is-M42/LHD/M/1990/july/browse/engine_electrical_system/alternatormounting_parts/, I'd use a vice to press them in.

In lieu of that a bolt, nut and a couple of washers should pull them into place.

[Geoff]

+1 to the vice,  and a little soapy water or silicone spray will make em pop into place easier
                                   Geoff

[jrobie79]

yeah i just used silicone spray and some elbow grease, not a big deal at all. probably coulda just froze em and popped em in

[deansweet]

yeah, they are rubber. I just used a little silicone and pressed mine back in last night with a long screwdriver and some leverage. I had the alt out while replacing the gasket/o-ring on the filter housing.

Very easy task.

keflaman - Thanks for that link! Saving for future reference.