1999 Saab 9-5 V6 Alternator Removal

[cwbuff]

I'm using these step-by-step instructions (http://saabworld.net/f29/saab-9-5-3-...placement-714/) to replace the alternator on my 1999 Saab 9-5 V6. I have done every thing up to and including removing both alternator attachment bolts. My problem is that the alternator will not move even with both bolts completely removed. Any advice on how to break the alternator loose would be appreciated.

[cwbuff]

I got the alternator out of the bracket by putting a section of a 2x4 on it and hitting the 2x4 with a dead blow hammer. Now I'm trying to remove the plastic cover from the back of the alternator. When I turn the nuts, the entire stud moves. What a pain. Will this come out from the top without removing that plastic cover?

PS: I would also like to know why they cut those tie wraps to a sharp point and then orient them to maximize the chance of drawing blood.

[cwbuff]

I got it out with the plastic cover on. It is a Bosch 130 amp alternator. I hit two difficult spots. The first was the a/c line against the firewall. Next was the insulation on the firewall. I had to move the engine forward as far as it would go and had to chew up some of the insulation on the firewall to get it out. But it is out and it clearly the source of the whine. The bearings are going bad in the rear (the area right below the exhaust pipe). But with 146,000 miles, I can't complain. I did not want to buy a new part until I got it out. So now my search begins for a replacement alternator.