How does one get the tension off the belt to remove the alternator??

This link should help:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-trucks/faq-how-troubleshoot-repair-maintain-hondas-selected-other-vehicles-46563-5.html#post578394

Here's pics:

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FIRST, go buy (or borrow from library) a BMW repair book and read. If you don't understand how an automatic tensioner works, you should not be messing with a BMW ($$$) Alternator.

eddiy75ru and castlepenn, I disagree with both of you and your approach.
This forum was generated to allow people to seek information regarding repairs, not your judgement as to whether they can do it themselves.
If you want to provide answers, go ahead.
If you don't think the poster is qualified to successfully complete the repair, feel free to not answer.