Not exactly Ranger question, 04 Explorer

[1996B4000]

This is not exactly a Ranger/Mazda question but I don't know where else to turn.

Ford Explorer, 2004, replaced alternator -- red battery light was on, alternator putting out 7 volts, also battery was 6 years old. Replaced battery also.

Got a NAPA alternator, it went on with no trouble other than fighting the belt tension.

HOWEVER -- the red battery warning light on the dash stays on, indicating no charge getting to the battery. BUT -- with motor running, voltmeter shows 14.2 volts at battery terminals, which I think means that's what the alternator is putting out. Motor off, battery voltage is 12.7.

I double-checked connectors, etc., on alternator, all good. Tightened mounting bolts to ensure good ground. all good.

HOWEVER -- I touched the alternator, it's running hot.

Any suggestions?


THANK YOU.

 

[RangerX]

A Ford Explorer you say?! How perfect that this is mainly an Explorer forum!
I moved this post from the Ranger section into the proper Explorer section.

 

[410Fortune]

There are fusible links between the battery and the alternator
You should check for continuity through these fuses… meaning you should have battery power at the big terminal on alternator

The dash battery light is the power side of things heading to the internal voltage regulator inside your new alternator
When the battery light is on it usually means the voltage regulator is not being powered. However since you have 14.2 volts running then it is charging…

I would inspect all wiring at battery and alternator. Drive it a few times see if that red light goes off
A loose connection at the voltage regulator can cause this (small wires at alternator)

As far as I know on a 04 sploder there is no fuse for the alternator/ generator it is all done with fusable
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