98 E39 M62 Air cooled Alternator connection removal

[Tylerag2011]

I'm having a bit of trouble removing my alternator. Specifically the electrical connectors to it.

Belt is off and all 3 mounting bolts are removed. It's dangling and ready to come out but I can't seem to reach the last 2 connections.

I've done a good amount of reading for guides but they all seem to be for the water cooled versions or those where the connections are on the front. All 3 of mine are on the rear of the alt and seem to be very difficult to access from underneath and all but impossible from the top. Any tips?

[wagons ho]

Just did mine. Work from the bottom. Pull the power cable out of the loom clip over the motor mount arm. That will give you the ability to pull the alternator forward 4 inches, enough to use a ratchet on the power cable nut with no extension. Then you can get the extra movement and twist to get your fingers on the plug clip. And take all that vent plastic out of the way first.
Get the Denso brand alternator.

[Tylerag2011]

Just did mine. Work from the bottom. Pull the power cable out of the loom clip over the motor mount arm. That will give you the ability to pull the alternator forward 4 inches, enough to use a ratchet on the power cable nut with no extension. Then you can get the extra movement and twist to get your fingers on the plug clip. And take all that vent plastic out of the way first.
Get the Denso brand alternator.

Worked like a charm, thanks. Didn't even know that clip was there. New alt is installed and works great