Strange Alternator Problem

I recently replace the alternator in my '82 911SC after having blown the first trying to start the car with a plug-in charger/starter (I won't try that again). Smoke came out of the alternator so I figured the old one was fried. The battery light and oxygen sensor idiot lights stayed on after starting the car (with a new battery). Anyway, I picked up a rebuilt Paris-Rhone unit and replaced to old with the new. The Battery/O2 light still stay on. My question is why?
I am posative the I placed the wires correctly on the back of the new alternator. I marked each of the three groups with tape.
The belt is tight and the alternator is turning.
Only twelve volts is mesured across the battery terminals when the car is running so I am assuming no charging is going on.
Do you suppose I recieved a dud alternator?
Do both the battery AND O2 lights always come on together?
Could something else cause the Battery/O2 lights to remain on?

Thanks for any assistance.
Brad

If the batt light stays on, the alternator is not charging and current is flowing from the batt to the car's electrical system. Batt should read 13 volts or more with engine running (our 1987 reads 13.5). It goes out if current flows to the batt. If it was mine, I would have the alternator checked and if it is okay, ie correct voltage and current capacity, them there may be a wiring problem?

Check out the voltage regulator. If the alternator is good assuming that it is rebuilt or new this would be a good place to check. I had the same problem with my 1976 911S. The voltage regulator basically turns on and off the charging current from the alternator. If you can read the wiring diagram, it is possible to jump the voltage regulator to force the alternator on or off. A voltage regulator is fairly in expensive ($40) and very easy to replace. It is located in the engine compartment on the driver side near the other electrical relays and fuses. Good luck.

I had a similar story with my 76. After having burned two alternators, I found a short in an aftermarket amperemeter. It was totally destroyed inside, building up some bonding path to allow the battery to go flat and having a short with the alternator. After throwing out the gauge, all wiring which was not original, and recharging then battery,the car ran fine.
Therfore, if the alternator is OK and you have checked also the regulator, look for any "mysterious wiring" or faulty gauge. Even a short between the + cable from the alternator and ground will have the same results.

Good Luck,

jens