Quick Alternator Wiring Question

[Webb]

On my alternator, I have a red wire, pretty heavy gauge, which I actually think is supposed to be brown judging by the book. Where does this wire go? The schematic shows it running into 3 horizontal lines, gradually getting smaller. Is this the grounding symbol? I just really don't want to toast my electrical system when I run oil pressure up in this engine for the first time.

 

[TR3driver]

That is the ground symbol. Should be a black wire, not brown.

However, double check that you actually have a 5-terminal alternator as shown in the diagram. Virtually all of them have been replaced with the later 3-terminal alternators, that do not have a separate ground wire.

 

[Webb]

Yes, there are 5 total terminals on the back of my alternator, 2 of which are bigger. And you're right, it is supposed to be a black wire. I didn't look closely. So I guess I can just ground it anywhere on the engine block?

 

[TR3driver]

So I guess I can just ground it anywhere on the engine block?

Yup, should work.