94 Cutlass Cierra alternator

So my charge light came on yesterday and my battery is only about 2 years old, but I don't know how old my alternator is, so I'm inclined to believe that it's my alternator. The thing that bothers me is that the light came on while I was driving, but I didn't see or feel a difference in the car's performance. The lights aren't dimmed, the car's revving fine, I have full normal power.

In other words, the light's the only symptom of a problem.

Anyway, what should I do to find out the root of the problem? Could the alternator just be on it's way out, but it's still doing it's job in a diminished capacity?

Thanks.

If you have a strong battery you may drive for a day or two and not notice a problem. For a few dollars you can buy a battery and alternator voltage tester. Using a tester will you help you isolate the problem and prevent you from changing parts that are still good

you can also take it to Autozone or checkers and they can test your complete sys.you said you didn't notice a difference in your electrical sys this might indicate that the alt. is working but not to its full capacity in other words it has a low amp output but can still maintain normal voltage reading

an amp clamp, a decent one can run from $100 and up i think it's better if you take it and have it checked somewhere
like Mrbizness said though a multimeter would be a very wise investment

it mostlikely isnt your alternator.....

The car would only run for up to an hour if it was running on just the battery.

If it does end up being your alternator you can defintley replace it yourself.. A couple bolts and some elbow grease on the top pulley (will give enough to put the belt back on ) and you will be good. It will save you a bunch of money. You should be able to find a deal for less than $100