I once ruined a good alternator with a shorted battery...

The battery did hold a slight charge, and I was able to get the car started. The wrinkle was the battery had a shorted cell, and burnt the alternator.

After a new battery and a rebuilt alternator, the problem was solved...$$$.

Pull out the voltage regulator on the back of the alternator...2 phillips screws to remove it... and check out the brushes...they may also be worn.

The Tenor Man

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Currently Driving.....
1987 Mercedes Benz 300D Turbo - Daily Driver.
2004 Buick Rendezvous...Smaller than it looks!
2005 Mitsubishi Galant - Not bad for a tin box...Lousey Seats
Past Vehicles.....
1994 Dodge B-250 Van- GAS HOG..Succumbed to rust!
1989 Mercedes Benz 260E - Totaled but no one injured.
1977 Mercedes Benz 240D - Loved it, but SLOWWW! - Succumbed to RUST!
1976 Mercedes Benz 240D - Same as above! -
1975 Mercedes Benz 240D - Same as above!