[Alan in AZ]

So - simple question - does the charge light ever come on? in bulb test? when the alternator isn't generating?

If it never comes on the alternator is probably not the culprit (since we know it can generate).

In which case I think you need to fix it - its really not that hard - its just some work to track it all down.

Assuming the bulb doesn't ever work (my guess):

With the ignition on ground Pin L23 (blue wire) on the Central Electric panel bottom plug connectors - does the charge light come on then?

If no - you have a problem in the pod - possibly the charge bulb or its resistor.

If yes move to the 14 pin connector in the engine bay - unplug the engine side - ground the pin 1 (blue wire) on the car side - with ignition on does the charge light come on?

If yes - replug the 14 pin connector - ground the small terminal on the alternator (blue wire) - with ignition on does the charge light come on?

This will tell you what section the break is in - if thats what it is.

It will likely be in the section between the 14 pin connector and the alternator.

In fact its most likley to be in the final section where the alternator stressed it when it was left hanging from just this wire (been there - seen that many times). If so likely repair is to strip it back to find the break and attempt to splice it there. If its broken inside the loom you can try backtracking into the loom - or run an additional wire back to the 14 pin connector.

BTW these instructions are for an '86 - CE panel connections will vary by year.

Alan