Background:

Trying to track down bad bearing sound in the Step-Ds 3.3 with 113k. Can hear the noise under electrical load (lights and radio or a/c) at idle, intermittently. Goes away with any individual accessory off. Noisiest when compressor is running. A/C works great. Idling alone there's generally no sound.

Changed the h2o pump cause I felt some play. Not the problem. Mopar unit $105 w/ gasket .

Ran with the serp belt off. Noise gone. Could not locate using hose/tube method. Could not locate hitting bearings w/ oil. No sign of metal specks.

Alt works fine. I noted it has play. Not in/out play, but maybe 1/8" slop when pulley is rolled in opposite direction. bearings feel fine/ smooth/ nose free.

Is this play normal?

Other sugg, tests or known prob spots?

Help appreciated.