My alternator started acting up so I investigated R & R procedure. I saw that a big fat AC compressor prevented removal from top and a sway bar prevented removal from below, the final alternative through the radiator. I learned at a visit to MBI and a discussion with the parts guy that the brushes and regulator are screwed into the end plate with two slotted screws. Removal was not too bad, access with big hands challenging. Inserting the new brush set needs to be done carefully as to not bind the brushes against the commutator. I did this by holding the set as far away from the commutator and tilting them as much as possible, just slid the set in. Aligning the screws was fun, because the brush springs cause pressure. The part cost me $52. A lot easier than pulling the alternator.