Alternator charging but making lots of noise

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Tahoe97

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My alternator on my 97 Tahoe 5.7l is almost 20 years old with 180,000 miles on it. While it continues to charge, it is getting noisy which I am attributing to age and wear and tear. When the original was replaced under warranty in 2000 with only 41,000 miles on it, the GM dealer's paperwork indicated it was replaced with part #10463651 which is now an obsolete GM part #.

Can anyone help me determine what the amp rating on this replacement alternator was back in 2000 as I want to make sure I maintain that amp rating when I install a new one. The RPO code in the glove compartment says K60 which I believe indicates 100 amp but that was the original factory one, not necessarily what the GM dealer replaced it with 180,000 miles ago.

If anyone has a suggestion for a high quality replacement alternator that has at least the amps part #10463651 had, please forward that on.

Thanks!
 

Doubeleive

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My alternator on my 97 Tahoe 5.7l is almost 20 years old with 180,000 miles on it. While it continues to charge, it is getting noisy which I am attributing to age and wear and tear. When the original was replaced under warranty in 2000 with only 41,000 miles on it, the GM dealer's paperwork indicated it was replaced with part #10463651 which is now an obsolete GM part #.

Can anyone help me determine what the amp rating on this replacement alternator was back in 2000 as I want to make sure I maintain that amp rating when I install a new one. The RPO code in the glove compartment says K60 which I believe indicates 100 amp but that was the original factory one, not necessarily what the GM dealer replaced it with 180,000 miles ago.

If anyone has a suggestion for a high quality replacement alternator that has at least the amps part #10463651 had, please forward that on.

Thanks!
105 amps
https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo.php?pk=870290&jsn=777&jsn=777
 

OR VietVet

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That is the 105 amp reman Denso alt at RA for $111.79 after core return. The new AC Delco is also 105 amp and at $96.79 at RA. Link below.

https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo.php?pk=3467898&cc=1061367&jsn=981


This is a new alt at Amazon for $68.95 with free shipping and is the part #10463651.

https://www.amazon.com/Alternator-F...r_1_1?keywords=10463651&qid=1575645446&sr=8-1

This is the AC Delco new replacement at Amazon for $95.28 free shipping

https://www.amazon.com/ACDelco-335-...sr_1_1?keywords=3351068&qid=1575645615&sr=8-1

This is the reman Denso at Amazon for $99.69 free shipping with no core return

https://www.amazon.com/Denso-210511...sr_1_7?keywords=2105119&qid=1575645711&sr=8-7
 
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Tahoe97

Tahoe97

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I don't mind spending a bit more to increase the amps if it fits and doesn't overload my electrical system. Any advice on an upgrade?
 

OR VietVet

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At least at RA it looks like all options with higher output are external fan and the one called for on your Tahoe is internal fan. Not saying it will not work but in all pics it also looks like v-belt pulley on those as well. I could be wrong and there is likely something else out there. If you had such good luck for so long with the one you have now, likely bearing going out, why not stick with what fits and is 105 amp.
 
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Tahoe97

Tahoe97

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Agreed. I will stick with what works and fits, the 105A. The AC/Delco off Amazon looks like a no-brainer. In fact I may keep the one I have as a spare for emergencies if I am down and out in the middle of nowhere since the core return is not required. Thanks to all for the tips.
 

liquify33

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There was a 140amp option, mine has it. Belt might be different but should bolt up the same way.

As mentioned though, if it’s worked for 20 years at 105 and you’re not adding crazy lights or stereo, no issue staying at 105

Edit: the plug may be different between 105/140 based on OReilly reviews. If you can compare them in store that would help.
 
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Tahoe97

Tahoe97

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And that is exactly my concern. I will order the replacement today. Thanks
 

liquify33

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And that is exactly my concern. I will order the replacement today. Thanks
While the belt is off check your idler and tensioner also. I had a growl that I swore was alternator that was the idler. $10 fix!
 

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