[A4] alternator probs

[Tom Donohue]

My son has a '96 A4 which has been suffering with an intermittant power failure.  It will charge, then won't.  I'm assuming it is an alternator problem...anyone have any other ideas.  Second question...it looks like changing an alternator is a major problem, including pulling the front bumper, etc.  Again, anyone have any good alternatives if we do have to replace it?  Thanks, Tom