> wrote in message
oups.com...
>I have a 1993 Volvo 240 Wagon. I tried to save some money by replacing
> the alternator myself when the old one started acting up (battery
> wouldn't charge any more, battery light glowing faintly). But now that
> I've installed the new one it seems that I can't figure out how to get
> the wires on properly.
>
> I made note of the connections on the old unit, and put the wires on
> the new one in the same positions (Thick red - B+, Thin red - D+, Thick
> Green - third terminal), but everytime I connect the battery cables the
> alternator sparks and acrid smoke comes out of it.
>
> I attached the placed the lug loops over the terminals and secured them
> with nuts. Is there something else I need to know about connecting the
> wires?
>
> Any help would be appreciated.
>
> Thanks
>

Sounds like you got a bad alternator. Take it back and try another one.