[mytrplseven]

Here's my take on your problem. Belt tightness: you should be able to push the belt along it's longest run 1/2 to 3/4 inch. If the belt wasn't replaced after the A/C seizing up you probably should have due to possible damage. When the A/C comes on and the squealing starts, that's slippage on the alternator belt. It won't put out the 13.8v you need to charge the battery. The brushes you refer to are part of the voltage regulator that sits on the back of the alternator. They're available everywhere, but here's the catch: if the new brushes don't sit well on the rings of the alternator due to grooves being worn into them, they may not function as well as they should. The VR is cheap and you could just replace it to see if it will work. If the alternator doesn't work after that, then start looking for a compatible replacement. First, I'd recommend a new belt and tighten it properly. Failing that, the VR next and then a new alternator. BTW, your alternator can be checked at some auto parts stores to see if it's not the problem (cheaper than replacing it).