No way to run the engine with the AC pully omitted? Can you have someone switch the AC on while you put your ear close to it?

I have killed a few alternators, but they have always spun freely when I took them off. Seems like if the bearing was going out you would be able to feel it. I guess you could always go to the wrecking yard and get a used alt. for cheap and try it. If it works keep using it or trade it in for a core and keep your noisy one for a spare.