Well first of all hello, I'm new to the forums and own a 2001 Acura TL-P.

The reason I'm posting is because I think my alternator is messed up. Not because it is not working but because from the area where it is when the car is idling there is a really annoying squeaking sound, and when the cooling fans turn on it gets even worse.

Can anyone tell me what I would have to do to replace the alternator?

 

I think I remember seeing a DIY on here. Check the DIY thread first. If not - maybe some of the CL guys have one - might give you an idea of what it entails.

 

could be the AC tensioner pulley, that big thing above the alternator that keeps the belt tight. Does it get worse with the AC on?
Check that = common failure, before replacing parts randomly
Get a mechanics stethascope for 5-10 bucks and have a listen

 

I would NOT start replacing parts that you arent sure if is actually the cause.

I would first diagnose the problem. Like stated above, it may be the tensioner. They have on occasion been known to make noise.

 

It could be I'll check it out, but I think its because the alternator hasn't been replaced for the entire life of the car, and its time could be now, the car is roughly 122k miles. Ill check the tensioner too.

And it only gets louder when the radiator fans spin up.

 

Mines original with over 260k. I would bet its the tensioner. (from your description)