1998 Lincoln Continental Alternator electrical connector

1998 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL
88,000 MILES • 4.6L • V8 • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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SWEET DADDY SIKI
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  • 8 POSTS
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.?
Oct 31, 2014 at 3:18 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 110,194 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
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.
Oct 31, 2014 at 5:41 PM
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