Technical Alternator/Battery Light Issue? 2.8JTD

[Benronpro]

So my battery light came on a few days ago while on a trip, 2005 2.8 jtd camper. No charge coming from the alternator and no loose broken wires I'm aware of. I've been maintaining the battery by paralleling the house battery solar panel to get me home. So I'm assuming the diodes or brushes have gone in the alternator, unless I'm overlooking something particular to the 2.8jtd?
I priced a new Valeo alternator at over a $1000 au??!! Are they made of gold?
Wondering if anyone has knowledge of changing the regulator or brushes in these alternators? I'm assuming these are internally regulated? I've heard just removing the alternator is a fun job that involves taking out sections of exhaust or steering components?

 

[Communicator]

Here is a photo of the mounted alternator. There have been reports of it being removed without removing other components. Perhaps over the chassis cross member, and thats after you get the bolts out.

 

[Benronpro]

Here is a photo of the mounted alternator. There have been reports of it being removed without removing other components. Perhaps over the chassis cross member, and thats after you get the bolts out.



View attachment 404507

Thanks for the pic, it looks like they built the van around the alternator.. I'll have a closer look when I get it in the shed tomorrow. Cheers.