Help with alternator/battery charging.

[SandDiesel]

Owned this car a couple weeks so I have no history on it. Battery wasn't charging so tried to have the alt checked at two auto stores and they couldn't test it, probs with their machine. So I replaced the alternator today w/a rebuilt 60 amp. The battery, car off, reads 12.48v. Car running it drops a tad to 12.25v, so not getting a charge even with the new alternator. Battery is a 1000CCA and in the trunk using heavy guage cables. Using a test light touching the batt lead on the alternator and to ground it lights (thanks Youtube?). I have no electrical background so lost at this point. The two items on my fender, a regulator (black component?) and the small white rectangular item next to it look suspect do to the crappy wiring attached. The white one gets very hot with the engine running. If someone can school me on the function of these two and if I should repalce them let me know. Also what else should I check? Thanks for bearing with, just want to give plenty info.

 

[1toolguy]

You don't say whether the battery in new or old so I'd get that tested first. The voltage regulator looks a bit old so I'd replace it (they're relatively inexpensive). Also the wires to/from the voltage regulator looks pretty small (too small=high resistance) combined with the fact that it's also very long to reach the trunk (also high resistance) replace them with at least 10-gauge wire. Finally, judging by the surface rust under the ballast resistor (the "small white rectangualr item", BTW- it part of your ignitions system) I'd say check your grounds.

 

[gtx69]

I agree with what was said.I also would place it back on the firewall and get new wires and crip and solder all.This way you know you have a good connection

 

[YY1]

I agree. Put it back where it belongs. Might want to look at a factory wire harness or diagram. Maybe whoever moved it didn't get everything right.

 

[b5rt]

I'd take a look at that fuel filter and rubber hose running so close to those headers too! It might all go up in flames and the charging would be the least of your worries.

 

[Darter6]

You didn't say if the replacement ALT has 1 or 2 field wire connections. That regulator is the one that uses the single field. IF you ALT has 2 field connections (spade terminals) you neen to ground one to make it charge.

 

[SandDiesel]

Battery is pretty new, topped it off with the charger and self test was good. Alternator is a single field connection. I agree wiring and grounds all suspect. I did run a heavier gauge wire to the regulator but I will replace the regulator too. Yes I zip tied the fuel lines momentarily. They were laying down by the header, it'll get re-routed as I clean her up. Thanks guys!