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Reply to "HELP!!! FIRE!!!"

Ok, so sorry to hear of either scenario, but the alternator is probably just fine.

The B+ wire is about 3’ - 4’ long and goes from that stud on the alternator through a hole in the firewall (follow it along, you’ll see it) and on to the big stud on the starter solenoid on top of the starter.  If you or a mechanic remove it, you’ll know how long a new one must be and what size ring tabs go on each end.  It is probably a 10 ga wire but may be an 8 ga.  Either is OK, larger 8 ga is better.  Most decent garage shops can make one up right there or any auto electric place or even Best Buy Auto Install shop.  Automotive standards tell us it should be a red colored wire.

The important thing in this repair is to remember that that charred wire still has 12 volts and a LOT of current attached to it so be careful!  Don’t let the charred, raggedy end touch anything metal while removing it until you detach it from the starter end.  Very big sparks ensue.

I suspect it just wasn’t re-connected after the engine was re-installed (it happens).  It would look pretty obvious if someone removed it at a show.   They would need a wrench and a minute or two to remove it standing amongst other spectators.

So, other than your choco-chip wire, no other damage was probably done.

 Pop in a new one and you’re golden

Last edited by Gordon Nichols
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