'01 sebring convertible 2.7: alternator not charging battery

QuestionEdit

We rebuilt the engine and it is running great.The "Check Engine Light" was on. We replaced the PSM (I think that is what it was called), the computer. We were told it didn't need to be flashed. The check engine light went off but the battery light remains on. The alternator is not charging the battery. The alternator tested good, new battery. We are now told to check the fusible link. We checked all fuses and they were good. My questions is 2 fold...does the PSM need to be flashed? Where is the fusible link located on this vehicle?

AnswerEdit

Hi Stephanie, About the fusible link, there is one that connects the alternator to the battery. You could check to see if there is continuity (close to 0 resistance measured with an ohmmeter) between the red wire at the alternator and the red wire (+ post) of the battery. If it is near 0 ohms then the link is working. If it is infinite resistance (or high in any case) then check between the starter motor's red wire and the alternator red wire which is the specific connection where the link is located. The fusible link is located exactly there (one end is attached to the starter motor + post and the other end goes to a splice located near the side of the transmission case next to the solenoid pack and from there the spliced-in red wire goes to the alternator red post). Also check fuse #25 in the power distribution center which is also needed to operate the alternator field coils. As to the the flashing of the pcm, that is mainly to record the mileage on the odometer and the VIN of the vehicle for warranty purposes (which are no longer relevant). If you have the sentry key immobilizer system (colored bulge in ignition key) then that might be a problem if not programmed into the new pcm. But it seems to start without interference so probably not. Please 'rate' my answer (see below). Thanks, Roland