Alternator Not Charging

Jeff Iammarino

New Member
Jan 24, 2015
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My son has a 96 GT convertible. We have been struggling with an electrical issue for too long. Initially, it started with a dear battery on the road with symptoms of an alternator failure. We found what appeared to be a damaged 3 wire alternator plug and replaced it. A week later, we were in the same boat - a dead battery on the road that starts right up with a jump but dies shortly after removing the cables. We charge the battery and replace the alternator based upon confirmation from AutoZone. A week later same story, only now the battery is shot too. Another $150 for a battery along with another alternator and a week later, same story...
Today after creeping out on the road again we limp it home and check the alternator. It shows no energy output while engine is running - It is as though the alternator is not turning on.
What could cause this?
I am no electrician, so troubleshooting wiring can be tough for me. Should I just take it to the dealer?
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you.
 
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Have you checked the fuses? Have you checked the fusible link in the main battery cable? Have you checked the grounds around the radiator core support?

Confirm that the correct alternator has been used for the application. Ford makes two main alternators. A two wire and 3 wire alternator. A 3 wire alternator used in a 2 wire application will not work as expected.

Confirm that the small alternator connector has been re-built correctly. As I recall there's a jumper between two pins.

Post the battery voltage with the engine off. Post with the engine running.