Volvo: 1988 240 dl alternator, trasmission, bell housing

Question
The car had been working fine until one night I drove it home and parked it.  I realized that I was too close to the intersection so I tried to start it and pull it up, but it did nothing.  There was no noise, all I got were the lights flashing in the car and the dash.  So, the next morning my boyfriend started it and we drove it up the street.  When I tried to start it half an hour later it did the same as the night before.  Left it for the day until about 5 (this happened at about 7 in the morning).  Started it, then, drove it down to my house and parked it there.  Realized the next day when I went to get something out of it, that the dome light was no longer working and neither were the power locks.  A few days ago, I jumped it and had it running, when I disconnected the battery it immediately cut off.  So that leads me to believe it's the alternator.    
I bought an alternator a few days ago and yesterday morning we tried to take a stab at replacing it.  However, it is in the most awkward position underneath.  As well, it seems as if it is hooked up to the power steering.  Somehow, that wouldn't seem to make sense.  Can you explain to me what the alternator is hooked up to, and can you give any suggestions on where to find directions on how to remove it and replace it.  I know there are two mounting bolts, but is there anything else connected?  
Let's see, to clarify....I need to know if my assumptions on what's wrong with the car are correct, what exactly is hooked up to the alternator, and how exactly do you remove it.  
Also, recently replaced the entire exhaust, rebuilt the bell housing and replaced the hoses in the trasmission because of leak, tune up and oil change were done three months ago and the battery is only about 1.5 years old.  I got this car from my uncle about a year ago, so I don't know how old the alternator it.

Answer
Hello Breeda! The alternator should be by itself on the right side of the car. There should be nothing else connected to it. Go to www.volvotechinfo.com or wwwipdusa.com for a repair manual. That will give you step by step instructions. Make sure you check the wiring too.

Jimmy