1998 Lincoln Continental Alternator electrical connector

SWEET DADDY SIKI

MEMBER
1998 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL
4.6L
V8
FWD
AUTOMATIC
88,000 MILES

I have a '98 Continental. My battery indicator light will flash & then will stop flashing on an intermittent basis. I noticed after connecting a voltmeter & wiggling the alternator electrical connector, that the voltage will change on the meter and the battery indicator light will flash. It mimics exactly what occurs when driving.

It appears as though the connector needs replaced. My question is: Can these electrical connectors fail on their own, OR is it more likely that someone may have removed this connector haphazardly by possibly tugging on the wires to get it removed from the alternator?

I'm assuming that any electrical connector can fail on its own over time. From oil, grease, corrosion, etc?

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,755 POSTS

They can fail as a result of either issue. Heat plays an important role in causing the problems. Make sure the connector itself isn't corroded or has a pin pushed in too far. Always remember, there is a power supply to the alternator directly from the battery, so make sure not to short anything.