It's been some time since original post, but today I decided I would adjust the alternator belts. Had to refresh memory - two bolts/nuts at top and one under car.

Started by checking access from under car. And this is what I found:



Notice anything?

I should have paid attention to the first two answers from tyl604 and Diseasel300. If you are still here - Thanks guys - you were right!

How that bolt found it's way out with the weight of alternator and belt tension, I have no idea! Been driving like that with just slight noise on start up for 6 months (or more)

Anyway, next job is to find a bolt (looks like about 90mm length, diameter? (Had to go back with some short bolts and find out) Measured about 90mm length x M10. Thread was on front ear so bolt is threaded in from rear. EPC says part N000931010388. Dealer only probably? Spring washer N000137010201

Then maybe loosen belts and upper bolts and try and lever alternator back up and insert new bolt.

Ideas and encouragement welcomed.

__________________
Graham
85 300D,72 350SL, 98 E320, Outback 2.5

We had another thread on the missing pivot , With part from kind PP member, got it replaced.

While doing this, also found that the air cleaner bracket that I fixed about 10+ years ago, had broken again. It could very well be this that was causing the noise at start up. Tried to buy a new bracket but vendor let me down. So, I did another bracket repair. Picture is below. Thicker stainless piece than last time. held on with one S/S pop rivet from below and the bolt that attaches bracket to manifold.

The noise at startup has gone! Not sure which of the repairs was the cure! CORRECTION! No it has not, it is still there - more evident when starting in garage. So search goes on At least found two other things that needed fixing anyway!

__________________
Graham
85 300D,72 350SL, 98 E320, Outback 2.5