2.5 tdi alternator removal

[DaveA4TDI]

hi guys, hope someone can help. the girlfriends car broke down yesterday the alternator had packed up. i got a replacement alternator today. i had a look at whats involved in replacing it but i just didn't know where to start. it looks as if i have to remove bumper and rads? can i remove it without stripping the front end down? if so where/how do i get to the belt tensioner? is there any advice before starting this? any special tools or maybe a guide? i have had a good search but haven't had much luck.
thanks in advance for any help
Dave

its a 2001 model pre facelift

[dan.taylor.1]

The viscous fan will need to come off to get the belt cover off to get at the belt/tensioner! after that i dont think itd be that bad, its bottom left as you look at the front of the car, on mine anyway (2.5 tdi AKE) and looks like a few bolts and the wires.

Dan

[kite]

I had the alternator changed on mine at Christmas.
Chris (adamss24) who is based in N. London done mine, the front had to come off and the bloody thing wasn't a cheap part.....

[DaveA4TDI]

hi thanks for the replies. i wondered if the rads would pull forward enough to allow me to remove viscous fan without the need for total removal. im going to try later today when ive finished work but im dreading it to be honest. done lots of work on cars before but not this one.
thanks and any more info would be great