So, my 2004's alternator has bit it ad 80k miles. I have changed many a alternator in the past but the steps required to do this one seem ridiculous. It seems they buried it even though it's in plain sight at the top of the engine.

Any insight on anyone who has done this themselves in the past? I already bought the alternator but now I'm thinking about finding a mechanic to do it out of lack of time to do it. I've recently gutted drivers side door to change lock actuator and window motor so I'm no stranger to complicated take apart, put together steps but the amount of stuff you have to remove seems like a lot from the very few places online that I could actually find steps for this project.

I would also change the serpentine belt while I'm in there, so any other preventative maintenance I could do while I"m in there?

Thanks!!