I just did an alternator change to my manual 97 civic ex. All alternator tests prior to installation were good. However, when I put it in my car and started it the battery light is constantly on. I'm guessing it could be the wires or plug in but I am no educated mechanic. Before I got the new alternator my battery light would just go on and off depending on idle. Although now it is constantly on. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Again it is a 97 honda civic ex 1.6 sohc vtec

 

Search for the "fuse 15 problem". Basically, you need to check the wires that go across the back of the engine to the alternator. This is best done by looking from underneath.

Unplug the 4 wire connector from the alternator and turn the key on. The battery light should NOT come on. If it does, there is a short in the wiring.

 

Did that and the battery light did not come on but it was a really rough start. I hit the 4 wire plug-in with some electric cleaner but no luck yet. Should I start testing my fuse box next?

 

Get under the car and check the wires for fraying where they go across the back of the engine and over the intake manifold brace. Check fuse #15 under the dash.

If those are OK your new alternator is probably a dud.