which alternator?

How do I tell if my 2002 3/4 ton Suburban has the 105 amp or 130 amp alternator?

I want to buy a belt and have to know.

If it is the original alternator, you could copy the part number and crosscheck it online or call the local dealer. They can also look up your truck from the VIN and see what was installed at the factory. Auto parts stores can usually crosscheck the numbers as well.

Alternatively (no pun intended), you can look for one of the following RPO codes for a 130 Amp alternator on the sticker inside your glovebox: 8A7 or KG8.

But frankly, I'd guess the belt would be the same part either way...good luck!

generally belts are not the same. Different size pulley most of the time.

generally belts are not the same. Different size pulley most of the time.

if it came out fully loaded it will be the 130 amp also.

They do have different part numbers listed for the belts.

I figure it is probably 130 amp, it is an LT and has every option I can think of on it. I'll check the codes in the glove box today.

I think the easiest way is to read and write down the BELT part number, and let the parts store cross-reference it. Or just take the serpentine belt off (draw a routing diagram if your underhood doesn't have the sticker) and take it in to the parts store, mine (1994) just takes a 5/8 inch socket on a 1/2 inch breaker bar to do that.

Keep that old serpentine belt as an emergency spare.

What is a good expectation for life of an alternator? I've got a 93 Sub C1500 with a 105 Amp Delco Reman with 76k miles on it. Bearings are fine so I suspect the brush life will dictate the life. Any ideas on this? I don't want to be surprised on the road and will change it out as a PM project if I'm within the window of life expectancy range. Thanks.

What is a good expectation for life of an alternator? I've got a 93 Sub C1500 with a 105 Amp Delco Reman with 76k miles on it. Bearings are fine so I suspect the brush life will dictate the life. Any ideas on this? I don't want to be surprised on the road and will change it out as a PM project if I'm within the window of life expectancy range. Thanks.

with normal highway / city idling time the brushes last about 180,ooomi....this would be with your older more reliable cs alternator..

the newer ad alternators when built in the late 1990's had issues with the voltage regulator getting damaged from the corrosion eating at the runs ..

my ad 2000 alternator 105amp failed with this issue ...bushes at 125,ooo mi were about 60% worn if that ...


I don't recommend or use remanufactured alternators ...too many issues / failures ...