My 2002 t&c is making noise at cold start and another at shut off that make me think it is the alternator clutch pulley. My question is this: is this something that has to be fixed right away or is it more something that can be driven on as long as I don't mind the noise. If I take it to a mechanic I imagine they'll want to just replace the whole alternator assembly which will likely run several hundred incl labor. I would like to fix it myself for a lot less but don't have a ton of time available right now and would like to know if it is something that is okay to drive with until I get some more time.

Thanks,
Eric