You could also rebuild your existing alternator with new front/rear bearings, voltage regulator, and rectifier diode kit:

https://www.americanmuscle.com/paper...epair-kit.html

https://store.alternatorparts.com/6g-rectifier.aspx

 

For the time, effort, and cash outlay involved replacing the alternator with a new one for less than $100 was a no-brainer for me. If I had been about to spend upwards of $200-300 for a new replacement alternator, I could have found the time to do what you suggested. My second attempt at replacing mine was successful. I don't know what I missed on my first try.

 

I have considered that for the old one I still have in my garage as a just-in-case/backup but, as Mustang_Don mentioned, I wouldn't consider that over the one I bought to begin with. I can't justify the cost of the parts and the time to rebuild mine (and hope it works). As a side project I would, then bench test it at a local parts store to see if I'll keep, sell it, or scrap it..