I started hearing a loud whining from my alternator when my car is running. The belt looks to be pretty tight, so I think the bearing internally are just going out and I'm going to need a new alternator. Are there specifics I need to look for as far as amps its generates? Any brands I need to look for? I dont really care about complete originality.

Thanks

I drive a 1968 Cutlass with the standard 350 engine, no extra bells and whistles.

 

You probably don't need an alternator much above 65 amp output.

If you are a competent shade tree mechanic you can replace the bearings in the alternator you already have, I'm not sure the job would be much cheaper than replacing the whole thing though.

Roger.

 

Before you do anything check out this old thread of mine. We replaced the alternator belt and tightened it very snug. Problem disappeared for a bit and came back ever so slightly. Water pump belt looked fairly new so we tightened that as well. Problem solved.
https://classicoldsmobile.com/forums...ing-sound.html

 

Rebuilding an alternator is super easy.

There are kits to do it for low $$$

Also super easy: starters, power steering pumps

Do it yourself.

 

I have a few of those externally regulated alternators laying around that I will never use. Shoot me an offer if you want a used one for extra parts.