996.1 alternator issues - a few questions.....

[DanoS4]

Well, these times are testing for sure!

I've had some electricity-related issues today: car wouldn't start.
I know that the alternator was starting to play up, so I guess now's a good time to get it sorted.
What's the part number for a MY00 3.4 996.1 alternator?

Also, bearing in mind my tapping issues, I had an interesting phenomenon today.

After the non-starting, I got it started and got to work. Stuck it on a high-tech battery re-conditioner and charger.
After the battery had been refreshed somewhat, I fired the car up and the ticking had gone!

So....... can a ticking come from a failing alternator?

In the meantime, I'm going to order a new alternator, once I've got the part number

Thanks in advance.

Dan

PS, car goes if for major service and tapping-check on Thursday.