ALTERNATOR should be a RECALL!!!

[Sir A.Y. Atoyot]

Alternators shouldn't make any noise you can hear over the general racket from the engine.

With all the mechanical talent here, I'm surprised nobody suggested just dismantling the alternator and installing new bearings. The job isn't rocket science, and the cost isn't high. Replace the brushes at the same time, and you should be good for years.

If you don't want to do the job yourself, get an auto electric shop to rpelace the bearings and brushes. They can also check out the unit for any other problems.