[87turbolook911]

While reinstalling my altenator into the fan housing I noticed the plastic cap in the back of the alternator is cracked...not a big deal I don't think?

But I also found a little bronze colored bit that fell out...oh crap I thought.
I thought it looked like a electric motor brush that I've seen before on my remote control cars.

Broke out the 101 projects book and found out that you can replace the brushes on the alternator. Once opened up, I confirmed that the little bronze piece was in fact a broken end of a brush.

Guess I'm lucky that I found it before I reinstalled it into the car

Any idea how much it cost to replace? Is it hard to find? Any leads appreciated.