Anyone have recommendations outside the $1300 from the dealer?

 

Just get the equivalent part in OEM. I think the LR4 is Denso or Bosch, so go direct to brand from a reputable source.

 

Hopefully this helps out someone else...

Only two types of people should drive Land Rovers: 1. People who aren't asking how to save $1300 in an online forum, and 2. People who aren't afraid fix them.

Changing out the alternator is relatively straightforward, but not entirely painless. Here is an excellent video that shows step-by-step instructions:

A couple of extra notes...

First, I recommend removing the top bolt first while there isn't any weight on it; since it's the hardest one to get to, if you remove it last then it's more difficult.

Second, it's very difficult to get the one-wire clip off; between the age of the vehicle and potential oil on the clip be prepared for frustration. Hopefully you just get lucky. In my case, I snapped the wire off trying to get it off. In the event that you need to replace the connector then the LR part number is YPC908520 ( thanks to Lutron); However, if you want a more immediate solution, you can get a Duralast CONA357 in stock at Autozone for $20. The connector is the same, but it's two wire; the LR part is one wire. Just cut off the extra wire.

Third, get the Denso. You should be able to find a refurbished unit for around $230.

Fourth, you should be able to test that its working after you put everything back together; Touch the positive and negative terminals with a multi-meter and it should be about 13.7-14.7 volts (versus 12 V for the battery when the car is off)