cat 215

hi, i purchased a 215 to build a 1/2 mile road into a lake , i think its early 80's and shows every bit of her age,
ive been using it for a month without too many problems but the swing is a little " clunky" , one way more so than the other, still works fine, i dont see anything loose, any ideas?
also , whats the best way to tell if alternator is charging?,no gauges and no lights or electronics.
thanks
redfish

cat 215