the alternator crapped out on my moms 97 contour DOHC 2.0
and it looks like a nightmare and a half to get out has anyone had to replace one of these before that could give some pointers

 

Wheelwell.

You want a nightmare, do the 2.5. The 2.0 is much easier.

Step-by-step for the 2.0 from the FSM:

2.0L Engine

Removal

Disconnect battery ground cable (14301). Refer to Section 14-01 .

Remove engine air intake resonator, mass air flow sensor and air cleaner outlet tube assembly from throttle body (9E926) and air cleaner assembly. Refer to in Section 03-12 .

Disconnect the wire harness attachments to the integral generator (GEN) (10300)/voltage regulator (VR) (10316).

Raise vehicle on hoist. Refer to Section 00-02 .

Remove the RH wheel and tire; refer to Section 04-04 .

Remove the RH splash shield.

Disengage the generator drive belt (8620) fron the generator pulley (10344). Refer to Section 03-05 .

Lower vehicle.

Installation

Position the integral generator/voltage regulator on the engine.

Install the generator mounting bolts. Tighten to 20-30 Nm (15-22 lb-ft).

Install power steering pressure hose bracket to engine lifting eye.

Install power steering pressure hose bracket retaining nut and bolt. Tighten to 8-12 Nm (70-106 lb-in).

Raise vehicle on hoist. Refer to Section 00-02 .

Install the drive belt over the generator pulley. Refer to Section 03-05 .

Lower vehicle.

Connect the engine control sensor wiring (12A581) to the generator/voltage regualator. Tighten output terminal nut to 9-11Nm (80-97 lb-in).

Install engine air intake resonator, mass air flow sensor and air cleaner outlet tube to throttle body and air cleaner assembly. Refer to Section 03-12 .

Connect battery ground cable.


Remove the generator mounting bolts and generator/voltage regulator.