I am trying to pinpoint the source of alternator problems with my 245..recently (within 6 months)had the brake failure/battery warning light combo and came up with the alternator gone wrong theory. I swapped it for one that came with my car(the seller said she replaced it earlier last year, but that didnt end up being the problem with the car at the time-kicking myself now for not finding out what the issue had been.) anyway since i had the other one on hand i had it replaced and it seemed to do the trick until today the lights kicked back on. I gave a quick look and noticed a black wire hanging down not seemed to be attached to anything. It seems to be coming from the pack of wires (two red and the black). would this be the ground? the other two red wires are attached to the alternator, but again this isnt attached. Im just not totally sure, dont want to short anything. Could this also be causing my problem?

If i cant figure it out i will take the alternator to a guy i know at a shop and see if i can get him to have a look.

i appreciate any suggestions. I checked out chilton, but it isnt really specific enough about the wires...