Alternator connections

[StefT]

After inadvertantly disconnecting and removing my alternator (don't ask!), I've put it back in place and reconnected it. However, I've now got a red battery light on the dash. I'm hoping that I've put something back on incorrectly or missed a connection somewhere rather than knackering the alternator (I never actually took it out of the engine bay!)

Could someone offer an idiot's guide to the connections please? Photos would be a bonus too (BTW It's a 98 4.5)

[slowtypa]

May be able to help.Phone me at work, details on profile.

Ray

[StefT]

Thanks for the reply slotypa, haven't tried phoning but just been out for another look.

I think it's just something simple (or stupid) like me putting a connection on the wrong part of the alternator! If not, looks like something beyond my limited skills! Seems I can break it but not fix it.

Looking from the driver's side at the alternator, the thick lead with red on is connected to the uppermost terminal. Then there's a spare terminal with nothing on it and finally on the lowest terminal is the black lead with 'alternator' stamped on it. Are these the right way around?

From what I can make out, the terminals on the alternator have B, O and M stamped on them respectively. The red lead is on the B terminal and the black one on the M terminal.

(No laughing at the back, please)!

[JensenA]

Hope this helps......

Edited by JensenA on Sunday 21st March 16:56

[StefT]

That's exactly what I wanted!

Thanks very much, Alan. I'll go and have a tinker again and see if I can fix it. I've definitely put the leads on the wrong terminals compared to your photo!