I have a battery-mounted cut off switch - don't leave home without one. Don't leave your old car home without one either.

At least once a year, i take the cover off my voltage regulator (before I connect the battery) and look at all the contacts, gently prying the ones that are closed apart. I look for stuck contacts and weld marks on the contacts.

Then. I start Beetlebomb, and after he is warm, rev the engine and look to see if things appear to be working.

You can also look for evidence of burning, discoloration, or any funny smell.

Then, I shut the car down, disconnect the battery and replace the cover.

A regulator problem can cause all sorts of trouble.