1. Make sure you have the right alternator. At least 130 amp but 200 recommended. (Depending on electric components in the car.)
2. When you install a new alternator, the battery MUST be FULLY CHARGED before the car is started. If this is not done, the alternator will over-heat very quickly and be rendered useless. The rotor inside the alternator spins extremely fast and the centrifugal force applied to it causes its wires to spread, thus touching the inner walls of the alternator's shell, at which point your car will shut off. This is called "grounding". Your alternator may be grounding. If it is, then its creating sparks as it spins which is very dangerous on a CV.
Remember though, this is a possibility. Make sure you check the simpler components such as connections and such first. If thats all good, then heed #2 above. I truly do not see what else it could be.
I too had the same problem on my 97 crown victoria. I had the alternator returned for a brand new one, charged my battery full, and started her up. No further problems. :D
Saturday, November 17th, 2007 AT 11:52 AM
