Squeaky Alternator and Upgrade?

[2Kchevy]

Hello.
I have a 2000 Silverado RCSB 5.3L w/ ~103K mi.

I just noticed a slight, intermittent squeak coming from under the hood at idle and slow highway speeds (55mph @ 1500 rpm or so). Both the main drive and A/C belt were replaced ~5K mi ago when I replaced the water pump.

I suspected the alternator, so I removed the drive belt and turned the alternator by hand and could easily hear an intermittent squeak. I am still running the original alternator which has ~103K mi, so the bearings are probably getting worn.

Here go the questions......

Is it possible or feasible to replace the alternator bearings?

I am not certain but I may be running the standard 105amp and may want to have efans in the future.

What is involved with upgrading to the 130amp?

Anyone have any comments about re-manufactured AC Delco alternators?

Thanks.

[oleshifty]

get one off an 04ish tahoe...its a 145 amp i believe. it's a little larger, but fits right in. The belt SHOULD be .8 inches longer, but I was able to make mine work. Tensioner is at the edge of it's range, but i'll live with it.

[GasGuzzler]

Most alternators will squeak when spun by hand with no belt side load. Keep looking.

[1978steven]

Idler pulley, bad tensioner..?..