Autozone & O'Reilly Auto Parts both test starters and alternators.
The best way to go about this if you are not mechanically inclined, go to your neighborhood Autozone, or Discount Auto parts stores, both stores test alternators for free, I used to work at autozone, so i know firsthand.
You can get this at an Autozone who can special order it for you. They can also do this at Pep Boys or you can look online at some auto sites.
They can if the bearings are bad but most of the time they will make no sound even though they are bad. Have it tested at any auto parts store if you suspect it it bad.
Cars don't charge alternators; alternators charge cars. If your new alternator isn't charging, it could be your battery is bad or your battery connections are corroded. Another thing it might be is your voltage regulator. Many alternators come with built-in voltage regulators, but if your system has a standalone v.r., it could be bad too. Finally, if your 'new' alternator is actually a refurbished or rebuilt one, it could be a bad rebuild. It happens.
alternators are classified as stators and rotors
Take it to AutoZone, and they can test it
Almost all of the local parts stores here offer free testing of alternators.. O'Reilly, Murray's, Autozone, Advance, just to name a few. Stop by and ask to have it tested. have the car running remove the positive cable from battery if car stalls it's the alternator if it stays running possibly the battery.
Firstly, no you must not pick the particular Alternators
bad battery is the most common, overworking (eg: big stereo, electric/hydraulic plow), worn out, electrical damage (shorting out).
Either the alternator is not providing a charge to the battery, or the battery has a dead cell and won't hold a charge. There are auto parts stores (AutoZone, Advance, O'Reilly's) that will check batteries and/or alternators free of charge.
alternators go 'bad' in various ways; bearings = noise diodes = no charge, insufficient charge or discharge. brushes = no charge