I'm helping my son replace the alternator in his 2003 Sonata. It has the 2.7L V6 and ABS. I can see that if it didn't have ABS, I could get the alternator out through the top of the engine bay where the ABS unit is. Since it does have ABS, that route is blocked. All the research I've done says the only way to get it out is to remove the passenger axle and take it out through the passenger side wheel well, which also requires unbolting the motor mounts and jacking the engine up a bit.

I have two questions: 1) is there an easier way to get the alternator out and 2) if not, when I pull the passenger side axle, will all of the transmission fluid drain out? Is there a way to plug the hole such that I don't have to replace all the trans fluid? (I guess that's three questions if you're picky. )

Thanks for the help.

 

Hyundai Sonata and Kia Optima use the same drive train. The following video is done on a Kia Optima:

 

Thank you allegretto, that helped a lot. Pretty much what I was expecting, but seeing the axle come out without spilling trans fluid all over the place made me feel better about it. I appreciate the help!