newbie problem; alternator warning light

[jimbobs61]

Hey guys, I just bought a Ford 2600 for cutting and gardening and the only thing working on the panel is the alternator warning light which stays on. It needs all new wiring ( most wires aren't even attached ). Should I take the alternator off and have it checked or redo the wiring? I hope to restore it all eventually but for now I just need to keep it going to bust up some new ground. Yep, the battery goes down when connected, whether it is running or not. Thanks, Jim

 

[Soundguy]

Redo the wireing = yes

have alt checked = yes.

is it an oem alternator.. or a gm/delco 1/3 wire farmerized on there?

soundguy

 

[jimbobs61]

Thanks soundguy, I will check on the brand when I get back up to the country. What do I need to know if it is the Delco? Jim

 

[RickB]

Thanks soundguy, I will check on the brand when I get back up to the country. What do I need to know if it is the Delco? Jim

They are cheaper to buy, common as dirt, and not original to the tractor.

 

[Soundguy]

Yep.. ditto what rick said... If it's a delco 10SI or 12SI.. you can get them at any parts store for 25-45$.. and they hookup with 3 wires and a light bulb or diode... super simple.. nearly foolproof.. and as rick said.. non oem.

soundguy

 

[jimbobs61]

Sounds great guys. On the wiring, should I buy the harness and wires as a package or can you just replace individual wires that are attached now. With a hot battery it cranks and runs strong. Jim

 

[Soundguy]

that's kinda up to you and your electrical ability.. and how much you want to root around in the old harness. If you only have a bad wire or two i don't see why you couldn't piggyback a couple to the harness using zip ties, and then do a bypass... etc.. all depends of your skills.

soundguy

 

[jimbobs61]

As long as ability doesn't imply knowledge, I'm all over it. I'm gonna wade in and replace what I can see are connected wires that are broken etc. Hopefully I can find a local to lend a hand. Thanks again for the advice.

Jim