What year alternator will fit 2000 cavalier

Unlike the old days, swapping engines from year to year is a science. 2000 cavalier had 2 different engines (2.2 2.4) with different control systems. You must make sure that the replacement engine is the same by checking the 8th digit in the serial number and then the internal components may be different and not compatible with with the new sensors and computer controls. Your local wrecking / salvage yard will be able to help you find what you need.

CHECK WIRING THIS UNIT WILL CONTORT THE FIELD IN THE COMPUTER. THE FIELD CONTROL IS WHAT MAKES IT CHARGE.

take it to autozone and have your alternator tested........

Product Safety - Ignition Circuit Thermal Events # 04002 - (02/18/2004)
04002 -- Ignition Circuit Thermal Events
1998 Buck Skylark
1998-2001 Chevrolet Cavalier
1998 Oldsmobile Achieva
1998 Pontiac Grand Am
1998-2001 Pontiac Sunfire
Due to part availability, this recall is being conducted in three phases. Phase 1 will consist of 1998-1999 vehicles, phase 2 will consist of 2000 vehicles; and phase 3 will consist of 2001 vehicles. When sufficient parts are available to notify customers of 2000 and 2001 vehicles, you will be notified and will receive a new initiation report.
Recall - Ignition Circuit DefectCondition
General Motors has decided that a defect which relates to motor vehicle safety exists in certain 1998 model year Buick Skylark; 1998-2001 model year Chevrolet Cavalier; 1998 model year Oldsmobile Achieva; 1998 model year Pontiac Grand Am; and 1998-2001 model year Pontiac Sunfire vehicles. If the engine fails to start and the driver holds the key in the "start" position for an extended period, high current flows through the ignition switch, and sometimes produces enough heat to melt internal switch parts. If the switch is damaged, a fire could occur in the steering column, even with the engine off and the key removed. The fire could spread to the interior of the car, which could injure occupants of the car or cause damage to adjoining structures.
Correction

this is going to be a difference between computers and wiring harnesses. Motors my fit but the sensors and computer monitoring systems are different

it has to be the routing of the belt,

it might be the alternator thats what gives you juice to drive your car

Check out this link... better than a diagram, a photo.

http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=309192

note: on my screen this guy's "purple" circle looks more like a light blue, maybe lavender.

youve either got a bad connection at the new battery or the power wire is shorting out did he have too pull the cables too get them too fit?

NO BECAUSE THE ODOMETER IS DIGITAL AND LEARNED TO THAT CAR