Volvo: 2000 S40 Volvo Alternator, s40 volvo, noticeable drop

Question
I have a 2000 S40 Volvo.  I recently took it into the shop and was told that my alternator's bearings have been causing a noise that I have been hearing when the engine has been running.  Its a spudder /choking sound that is mainly noticeable at lower speeds.  And it doesn't seem to affect the   ability to drive the car (no noticeable drop in engine power).  I also have not had any battery problems yet.  Is the noise possibly from the alternator's bearings?  How easy is it to change that part by yourself, without having to get under the car?

Answer
Ryan,
Well most times the noise that comes from the alternator is due to bearing or in your case the pulley itself. What all shops do that I deal with is to just replace the alt with a rebuilt. So all you need to do is remove the old one and install the new one. Not a terrible job just somewhat time consuming. Not many shops other than a rebuilder would take apart the alt for repairs.