Turns out my alternator bearings are shot, and the positive cable stud is broken. Plan to either have it rebuilt, buy a rebuilt alternator, or consider a new one. Problem is, how do I determine what kind of alternator I have. Probably original...1984, 8.2 Detroit Diesel. Don't know the amps, and there is a tag on it, but the writing is long gong.

Thanks,
John

Most decent rebuild shops will have people experienced, and probably be able to identify your alternator on sight. Neither the bearings nor the post are major repairs; they will probably have rebuilt ones on the shelf if you decide on a swap.

I prefer to buy from rebuild shops (new or used starters and alternators) because they know who the reliable suppliers are. Auto parts stores don't have to worry about the labor to pull an alt for warranty and to install a new one, so really don't care.