Car will not turn over, battery completely dead, after changing alternator belt.

[sweetp01569]

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!!!

[Bitsyncmaster]

You need to see if the battery will accept a charge. If not disconnect the alternator wires and then see if it charges. If so you alternator probably has a shorted diode.

[sweetp01569]

You need to see if the battery will accept a charge. If not disconnect the alternator wires and then see if it charges. If so you alternator probably has a shorted diode.

Thanks, Dave. I will test tomorrow. If diode is shorted in alternator, does that mean a new alternator?

[Bitsyncmaster]

Thanks, Dave. I will test tomorrow. If diode is shorted in alternator, does that mean a new alternator?

Yes a new alternator. Replacing the diodes is not something owners would do even if you can get the parts.