E53 X5 4.4 N62 V8 - Any DIY Tips for Upper Timing Cover Gasket R & R?

I am replacing the valve cover gaskets and upper timing cover gaskets on a coworkers 2005 X5 4.4 V8 (N62). I started on the left side and it took me almost 5 hours to get the VC off. Sheesh! I called it a day when it started to get dark, and have not gotten to the upper timing cover on that side yet.

According to the TIS, there is a TON of disassembly required to R & R the upper timing cover on that side (including the radiator and alternator). Has anybody done the job who might be able to offer some shortcuts? Do the alternator and radiator really need to come out?

Any tips would be greatly appreciated!

The radiator does not need to come off. The alternator is in the way of one of the bolts for the cover, but it does not need to come all the way out. Remove the top bolt and loosen the bottom, you should be able to tilt it just far enough to get at the bolt. You might find it easier to work if you took the aux fan out. The right side is easier, with only exception of lining up the vacuum pump when installing it.