Win, thanks for confirming my suspicions (that I'd have to remove the PS pump). I assume you replaced the entire alternator - did you get it at AutoZone or Advanced? They both said they had a lifetime guarantee and for 1/3 less than the Bosch from the dealer, but I don't have any experience with either brand.

Sears was about to replace the Die Hard battery for the second time in four months when I told them the voltage from + to - with the car running never exceeded 12.6. So, then they said the alternator was bad (there is lots of information on the 700/900 FAQ page that was helpful to me). They offered to order one from Advanced and install it for me and I decided I didn't trust them to do anything but tires and batteries.

Tonight I removed the voltage regulator (a real pain with the PS pump still in place - but doable). I suspect that the brushes are worn out, but I don't know how to tell exactly - do you have any suggestions on that?

All I know is that when I measured the voltage at the alternator instead of the battery, it still never went over 13.9 even when revving the engine with minimal load.