got a 78 cutlass .and for some reason my battery seems to be draing only when i drive the car.how do i find out if my [alt] is hooked up right i think its on the tiny bolt on the starter wouldnt that cause it not to keep a charge pretty sure but what do you guys think?would the [alt] still turn over.but not keep a charge?

 

You're battery is probably draining because you have a SBC in your Olds. Replace it with an Olds engine and I am sure it will fix the problem.

WAIT A MINUTE!

I just noticed you said the battery is draining when you drive the car. In that case, take your car to an auto parts store and have them test your alternator. They have a machine that makes it stupid proof.

 

no such machine, there will always be a jug head that can screw it up

 

I resemble that remark.....errr......wait a minute.......

 

Nothing is idiot-proof because idiots are so ingenious!
It is worth a shot from the parts store, though. If it tests BAD, sometimes the internal brushes wear out and you might be able to replace them yourself cheaply - I did that with my Ford. I had it fixed in a couple hours and $4. It beat having to change pullies and spend extra $$.

To quickly check charging circuit in car:
Put a volt meter across the battery with engine off - reading should be around 12 - 12.6V.
Put a volt meter across the battery with engine running - reading should be around 13.6 - 14.2V.
If lower than 13, then alternator or regulator may be faulty. Do you have an external regulator?

 

Could be a bad alternator, have it checked first.

 

Take a wrench and touch the back center of the ault. when the motor is runing. It will be a magnet. If it pulls the wrench to the ault. then it is chargen.

 

I agree with Lady. If it reads higher than 15 after a full charge Bad cell in batt