Car will not turn over, battery completely dead, after changing alternator belt.
I am hoping someone can help me. I replaced alternator belt, but when I was loosening the upper 18 mm bolt, my wrench touched the positive lead on the alternator and sparked (I should have disconnected the battery. I didn't think much of it, replaced the belt, tightened everything back up. Car started right up, belt looks good. I take an hour-long ride, park the car at friend's house. After about an hour long visit, I try to start the car but battery seems completely dead-nothing turns on when turning the key. Connected jumpers to friend's car to try to jump the battery, and the dash lights come on, but nothing turns or cranks.
When I sparked the wrench against the red lead on the alternator, what could I have damaged to cause this issue? Did I hurt the alternator or starter, or blew a relay/fuse? What's confusing is that the car started fine twice after replacing the belt, but I'm guessing I shorted something to prevent the alternator from charging the battery (which I guess just drained on the hour-long ride??). I left the car at my friends house, and now I need to figure out what is happening. Any help or guidance will be greatly appreciated. I will go over there tomorrow to investigate. Thanks so much!!!
