nathan96

Here is a list of everything that I have tried so far today.
1. Replaced brushes and voltage regulator on alternator reinstalled - no voltage (0.34vdc) from alternator.

2. Replaced connector to the alternator and tested for voltage - 12volt in accesory position, then ground when car is on and alternator is disconnected.

3. checked grounds and positive leads on battery and chassie - none loose or corroded.

4. Went to NAPA and bought a new alternator and installed - less voltage than before 0.24vdc

5. Checked battery cables from battery to alternator 12vdc

6. Checked for voltage before starting > voltage after starting.

The car is strictly running on the battery so it does not want to run very well. I managed to get it to work this morning and now have the battery sitting in my office charging back up so I can drive home.

I need to know if the problem could be caused by the computer, or what controls the voltage output from the alternator? Also are there any hidden fuses that might have blown at some point that I can check? I really need to get this thing running. Also, I noticed some posts about the ICM, does it play any role in how the alternator works?

shoebox

The little red wire to terminal "L" on the alternator should have battery voltage on it when the key is ON and not connected to alternator (it's the exciter lead to turn on the voltage regulator). If not, the alternator is not going to charge . Also, be sure your gauges fuse (#9) is not blown.

nathan96

Well I read through just about every post on here about alternators today and finally found some information that helped. I went negative to alt post with AC voltage and there was about 25volts! Yikes! Is there something that could be messing up the diodes before I take back all of the parts that I have, new alt and voltage regulator and get a working used one for a lot cheaper?

slopokrodrigez

Did you check the items that Rob told you to check? When you do, check to be sure the alternator has clean grounds. Not just at the alternator but the where the bracket connects to the engine.