My alternator in my 83 CJ7, 258 engine, is not charging the battery, this has been an intermittent problem the past few months. I have now used 2 different alternators, and had both of them bench tested. Also I have a new battery (6 months old Optima), and new battery cables. Fan belt is adjusted properly and spinning the alternator. My next guess is that whatever wires meter the battery voltage and tell the alternator when to turn, or however that system works needs to be cleaned or replaced. Can someone explain to me how this charging system works?
As I see it there are 4 connections to make this work.
Ground - The alternator grounds it self through the engine Positive - the post coming out of the back of the alternator, connects to junction mounted on fender Side A of plug - Also a positive wire ( also a red wire) that connects to the positive post as well, then continues to fender Side B of plug - This is a thin gauge wire, black in color, that ties into the wiring harness, and probably up through the firewall of the jeep. What does this wire do? where does it connect to?
Any ideas?