So interesting enough, I think I know why there were 2 belt lengths listed. I changed the alternator, BTW, it wasn't that bad... it sucked, don't get me wrong, but I barely used any of those walk throughs, just as a reference bassicaly and I had it all done in 2-2.5hrs. I even removed the alternator bracket after I got the alternator out so that I could press the sleves out, then I was even able to get a 1/4" air ratchet somehow up by the cat. and get to both bolts to tighten the alternator back in. Anyway... the pulley on the new alternator is actually smaller by a 1/4" or so than the stock one... the 71.5" belt fit EXACTLY the same as the 72" did with the stock alternator on. That must be why. Don't get me wrong, the tensioner is almost at it's max with being tight... it was a PITA to get the belt over the pulley, but it's all done.
My alternator was completely cracked just like everyone elses... what a POS. Really crappy design for them to bassicaly mount the alternator on it's side and not support the weight evenly from underneith it. I don't blame the parts for failing at all... that is just simply a poor design and I would NOT recomend ANYONE getting a reman part because the alternator case is that much closer to failure.
Now I have a new water pump (metal impeller) and belt, a new alternator and drive belt, no more battery light above 5k, and no more whistle in the stereo... everything works great. I'm now ready to make my road trip on Thursday from MI to SC for a wedding.
On a side note... I dropped a bottle of water wetter in the coolant mixture since I had one sitting there because I use that stuff in my Mustang... the water temp is actually lower... I don't know by how much, but instead of being dead center on the gauge, it's left of center by a little and is stable... the car seems MUCH happier now. I was VERY impressed by how much of a difference the water wetter did in a bassicaly stock (non-race engine) car. Something to think about. The cooling system seems MUCH more efficient and stable and the fans don't have to constantly be on either.
