jackdog1

I have a strange issue on my 2001 Accord ex v6. I replaced the alternator at 204k miles with a brand new (not rebuilt) because the old one started burning up its rear bearing. Ever since then, when it's in motion the battery light flickers, especially during acceleration or braking. What's weird is it doesn't do it when the car is stationary, or once I turn the headlights on. Battery is also new (a group-34, 925CA glass mat) and the car hasn't had any starting issues in the several months since I replaced the alt, so I'm assuming it's charging the battery correctly. I already tried contact cleaner on the alt connector.

I also had an issue with the car dying after a warm start, but that seems to have corrected itself.

I'm thinking it's a loose wire somewhere?

holmesnmanny

this means the new alternator is bad

jackdog1

Nope. According to the tester it's absolutely perfect. Battery test showed it was at max capacity (840/740CCA), and alternator output loaded and unloaded was well above minimum with very low ripple.

I talked to my coworkers and they're fairly sure it's a grounding issue, especially considering that it won't flicker while stopped or when the headlights are on.

holmesnmanny

Oh, I didn't read that you deliberately removed ground wires after installing the new alternator. Clearly my mistake.

jackdog1

Uh, I didn't. I left the ground wires in place, but I'm wondering if the battery ground is going out. I just checked it and the unsheathed section at the starter is somewhat corroded and a few of the stands have frayed off. I'm going to try cleaning the battery and alternator connections first though.