P38A Getting the alternator back in.

I had to use a pry bar to get the old one out.. And getting the new one in is proving difficult. The little colletts inside the bracket are very tight and I can't manipulate them at all to give more room to slide the new alt in.
Tried to use light taps with a mash hammer but that didn't help much.

What idiot thing that's obvious am I missing?

Bit of oil? Seem to recall i got one side partly in then used a tyre lever and a rubber mallet to seesaw it back in, once one side is in, get the bolt thru for more leverage

Watching this thread as replacing mine is on the list for next week.

Mole grips will usually get those collets to move, just use them on alternate sides a little bit at a time.

I used mole grips to slack them and a socket to tap them back a little.

Next time I'd be inclined to use multiple washers and a socket with a bolt to pull it through.

Just to add... The old was was clearly well fcked. Totally free spinning and noisy.. And now the new one is in, so many faults have gone and the thing purrs away.

I usually use a G-Clamp & Socket to move the collets.

I just squirted with my preferred penetrating oil (whichever I find to hand) and rocked mine back and forth until it loosened up, also used a length of wood to pry the whole thing.
I went for a new Voltage regulator on mine as the alternator itself was fine (not bad for a 24-year-old Magneto Marelli). I understand the one that comes out will normally go back in with less effort than a new one due to those collets.

Nut and bolt with a socket and pull it back into position. Then there is no risk of breakage.