Had to fit a new alternator today to my 2010 1.4 with SS and aircon. I found it nearly impossible to get at the top mounting bolt, and was close to giving up.

When I finally reached the top bolt, it wasn't tight. When I got the alternator off, I noticed it was an aftermarket one. So someone had changed it and couldn't get a socket on the top mount well enough to tighten it properly.
Has anyone got any tips for doing this job more easily? I used a socket, a short extension and a stubby ratchet. I probably wouldn't have got the top bolt off if it had been tightened properly. I wondered if a wobble bar might help, I didn't have one anyway. Apart from not charging, there was roughness in the rear bearing of the old alternator. So in a mere 75000 miles this car has had 2 alternators. Our last Punto was a 2007 that we kept for 10 years and it didn't need an alternator in that time. It was actually still on the original battery when we sold it. This one has a non original battery as well. Maybe it is the stop/start that is killing the batteries and alternators.

Hello,

I have to change my alternator, too. The local FIAT mechanic told me they do it without removing the climatisation conduit, apparently they lower the engine block or part of it a few inches to get access. I do not really understand yet how to do it easily by myself, especially as I do not have a lifting device for the whole car to get under it without compromising savety.

Changing the alternator of my 1995 Fiat Bravo (without climatisation) was easy. With the Punto Evo, it is not.