Check around or at the alternator. There is a hot positive battery lead that hooks to the alternator. There COULD be a short there. You don't need the alternator hooked up to start the engine if that is what you want to do. I don't mean take the belt off, just unplug it and disconnect the battery lead. After disconnecting the alternator, TOUCH the battery lead and see if it gets hot or smokes again. It is NOT unusual to get a SMALL spark when you first hook up the battery. WE JUST DON'T WANT SMOKE!!!

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My Truck.. 2007 DODGE, 5.9 Cummins, 6spd stick, 4X4. My car..1977 240D, OTHER WHEELS...1955 VW Oval window bug, European Delivery (Holland) with a 1700cc, 2 barrel, Porsche drum brakes. 1939 WILLYS Pick-up. 1967 Triumph 200cc Tiger Cub. 1976 Honda 550F 4cyl Motor Cycle.