I wonder if the wire running from the alternator to the battery is bad.. anyway I tested my battery and I get 10v (car won't start)... and I remember I tested it at the wires coming off the alternator and I got a reading (I forgot what)... but I think when its running it still reads only 10 or 12v at the battery.. I also tried holding a wrench up to the back of the alternator (something suggested on another post here from a search) and it did pull the wrench in like a magnet... so.. is my alternator screwed... or the wiring from the alternator to the battery...?

 

Zirt,

Measure the output voltage of the alternator directly at the output stud on its rear case with the engine running. You should be able to read at least 13 VDC unless the battery has a shorted cell(s). If there is a strong magnetic field around the alternator while it is turning, it is likely charging, but hte voltmeter won't lie.

 

hook one probe of the voltmeter up to the output stud on the back of the alternator, hook the other probe up to the positive terminal of the battery. is the reading you get close to 0 volts?

 

Forget it.. $200 later i have a rebuilt alternator.. a bracket that holds the alternator.. and everything is fine.. or better be.. =/.. at least I know know of a junk yard with a totaled v6 camaro that will let you go in a pull parts off of it... got a new bottle for my radiator coolent now (this one has a hole in it =().. there was a totaled 4th gen z28 camaro there.. but someone took the whole front end.. the interior console(steering column and all) and the front seats... i wonder if taking all that was worth it to the person ?