When you say it dies, do you mean the battery? Or does the engine die because the battery is dead?
As far as the battery, you must have a draw on it all the time. Here is an easy way to check for a draw:
https://www.2carpros.com/first_things/why_is_my_car_battery_dead_over_night.htm
If you find there is a draw on the battery, remove one fuse at a time until the draw stops. That way we can limit the problem to one circuit.
Next, if the alternator is good, it should keep the car running. Here is how to test an alternator:
https://www.2carpros.com/how_to/how_to_test_alternator.htm
Now, if the engine dies but starts back up for you, then the battery isn't dead. At that point, then we have to consider things like the crank sensor... However, that would have nothing to do with the battery.
Let me know what you find. Also, I do love working on cars. I have done it for nearly 30 years now. However, for the past 15 years, I have been a teacher. I work in a buddy's shop on weekends and in the summer. It's something that I will do till I die.
Let me know what you find. Also, keep in mind the alt may show good, but there could be a bad fuseable link that isn't allowing power to pass. Let me know what you find with the draw test and the alt test. They are not hard to do. All you need is a multi meter. You can get them for under 10.00. If there is a nationally recognized parts store near you, they will check the alt for free.
Let me know how it goes.
Joe
Friday, April 9th, 2010 AT 7:20 PM