so i was about to replace alternator until
 

I noticed the allen head bolt that you loosen in order to push the fan blade forward is stripped. UGH!!

I am new to these cars and really like my a4 but dang they sure were not built to be serviced easily.

Does anyone know how to remove the alternator w/o having to loosen that bolt? Can the fan itself be removed from the front?

Or does anyone know a different route to take in replacing the alternator.

I am getting really frustrated. HELP!!!