I changed my 14 year-old alternator today. When I started the engine, all of the dashboard lights (lambda-sond, AMP, parking brake, oil, and brake failure) went on and stayed on. I looked and looked under the dash and could not find the reset switch. Where is it located and do I have to do anything to get it (eg open a flap)?

Also, when I changed my alternator, my 4.5 year-old battery with a 5.5 year warranty died. I was able to jump start the battery to make it last long enough to buy a new one. Is there a connection (gremlin?) or just a coincidence?

thanks in advance.

Mike

Mike -

Evan is right, there is no reset switch. The warning lights go out when their ground connection is lost. It gets lost when the alternator produces current.

The alternator produces current when it is spinning AND there is voltage applied to the rotor via the brushes. The voltage gets there from a red wire connected to a spade lug on the back of the alternator.

That wire goes into the wiring harness that goes under the front of the engine (subject to insulation failure) and thence to a gray connector on the firewall, about center. It is red there, too.

Somewhere along the way that red wire is grounded out, which causes just what you got. Warning lights on all the time and an alternator that doesn't charge.

Check that wire. Also go to www/volvocars.com/lit to order a Volvo Wiring Diagrams service manual for your model/year. It is a great book to have. Where do you think I found out about all that stuff? The tooth fairy?

Good Luck,

Bob

:>)

Reset switch? There is no reset switch - you wired something wrong. Go back and double check.