Timbert;

That is totally typical of the $40 "rebuilt specials". If the alt was making serious mechanical noises that soon, it probably means that it didn't get new bearings when they "rebuilt" it...I wonder what else it didn't get...that's why I recommend paying for and installing the official AC Delco rebuilt ones...but it's your call of course.

As to the symptoms, dim lights indicate the alt is probably n ot putting out (loose belts and/or wires or that sort of thing notwithstanding), and the fact that the AMP light did not come on is somewhat unusual, but not impossible. There are some failure modes which do not result in AMP lite coming on...especially if you installed a "unknown" alt.

In the OE gen setup the AMP lite is connected as you state...but after the upgrade it is slightly different...then the AMP lite supplies the field power to start the alt generating power...after that, it "self-exites", so it could be putting out enough voltage tokeep the AMP lite OFF, put NOT really putting out power.

Have you performed the "full field test" as described in the instruction? This bypasses the reg and applies full field...if it doesn't put out then (indicated by system voltage rise - connecty Voltmeter) that confirms alt is for s**t (which we kinda knew already anyway).

...bottom line is: Remove alt, take to automotive elec place, have them check electrically, replace BOTH bearings and repair...in other words: Really Rebuild! OR, check paperwork I sent you with kit and buy the recommended alt.

Live and learn...pay me now or pay me later...I told you so...close cover before striking... etc...etc...etc

Cheers