Here’s a little write-up on replacing the alternator bushings on a e30 M3.  There’s not much to it, but if you’re like me you just need a little push.  Obviously, first you need to buy some new bushings.  I shopped around a bit and decided on AKG Motorsport’s delrin version.  They’re a little pricey, $30 a set, but I’m willing to support a smaller business…and anyone that still carries e30 performance parts!

First, remember to disconnect the battery from the negative terminal.  Personally, I always do this out of habit ever since my dad arced the hot and ground terminals in my old 79 528i…with his wedding band!  The thing practically melted onto his finger.  You can image the pain and smell of burnt flesh.

Second, remove the alternator from it’s two mounting points.  The top is a hinge; and the bottom is the belt tightening arm.  Both have a long ~4 inch bolt that needs to be removed.

Now that the alternator is free, you can see the rubber bushings fitted at those mounting points.  If they’re like mine, the exposed parts have become gummy from heat exposure.  Go ahead and remove the circlips holding the inner steel sleeves.   Once those are out, pound out the sleeves with 10mm socket and a hammer.  The rubber bushings can now be removed.

Reinstallation is just the reverse, easy.  The only issue I had was the stiffness of the new bushings.  I wasn’t able to reuse both washers under the circlips.  Stock bushings have enough give to squeeze them in.  UPDATE: I’ll need to put both washers in to diminish the possibility of straining the lower bracket.

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